Obituary of William John Hendricks

It is with profound sadness we say goodbye to our husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and neighbour.  William John Hendricks "Bill" was born in Rockyford on September 21, 1935 to John and Othilia Hendricks.  He was the sixth of seven children: Irwin(d), Ilene(d), Arlyne, Lorraine, Bernard(d) and Albert(d). 

Bill was fortunate to live a happy and fulfilling life farming in the Strathmore area. Bill and Mary (Lauweryssen) enjoyed 62 years of marriage, raising their three sons Michael (Donna), Douglas (Sherri) and Leonard (Susan) in the home they built. 

Bill was a very kind-hearted man. He led by example… although a few more detailed instructions might have been useful at times! He never got tired of baling hay or running a tractor. It seems he felt a need to keep his job! He had a phenomenal knowledge of all aspects of the irrigation systems. There was nothing Bill couldn’t get working; he was a ‘Jack of all Trades’. He knew all the birds, loved his farm pets and excelled at unscientific forecasts. Bill had a sharp wit and was quick to tell a joke.  He was an avid hunter and always brought fresh gophers for his cats. He spent his retirement fixing old tractors and trucks, along with providing a wealth of valuable farming knowledge to Mike.

Bill loved his family and loved to see everyone together around the campfire, or on any occasion. His grandchildren Nicole (Justin), Garrett (Tracy), Leesha (Gareth), Brad (Lauryn), Zenya and Carter were a source of joy and the recipients of many life lessons. Bill enjoyed supporting his family in all their activities. He lived his life according to his Catholic faith with honesty and integrity. He was a member of Sacred Heart Parish, an Honorary Life Member of the Knights of Columbus, and a Flames season ticket holder for over 30 years. Bill will be dearly missed by the many people his life touched.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Sacred Heart Church Building Fund would be most appreciated. You can donate online at https://sacredhc.ca/donate   

Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. A livestream will be available at the bottom of this obituary on Thursday morning. To view the livestream of the Funeral Mass CLICK HERE.