William F. Henness

William F. Henness, 82 of Colchester. After a 2 year battle with cancer, with the dedicated love and care of his wife, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on March 1, 2016. He was born April 13, 1933, to John W. Henness and Lucia B. Crocker. For more than 62 years, he shared life with his wife, Virgie A. Roberts Nelson, whom he married on July 3, 1953. Shortly there after, he adopted Virgie’s daughter, Carol.
At the age of 17, he joined the U.S. Army. He proudly served his country in Korea as a sniper until a battle wound led to a medical discharge, earning a Purple Heart.
He worked at Hemps / King Seeley for 31 years and the Elms Nursing Home for 10 years. He also served as a lay minister for about 10 years. Some of his interest over the years include photography, hunting and shooting marksmanship, archery and running. But most of all he loved his country and family.
He is survived by his wife, Virgie, of Colchester and three children: Carol (David) Reedy, Naperville, Mark, Plymouth and Melody (Carlton) Berndt, Cherry Valley, one sister; Dorothy Bodenhamer, and one brother; Robert Henness both of Colchester. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Colchester Rescue Squad and McDonough District Hospital Hospice.
Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, March 4, 2016, at the Jones Mortuary in Colchester with the Rev. Dennis Clements, Burial with full Military Rites by the Macomb V.F.W. and Macomb American Legion will follow the services at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Colchester. Visitation with the family will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home. Friends may view and sign the register book at the funeral home after 9:00 A.M. Thursday. Memorial is to Colchester Rescue Squad. Condolences may be expressed to the family at jonesmortuaryfh.com

Visitation:

6:00 to 8:00 P.M Thursday at the Funeral home

Service:

11:00 A.M. Friday at the Funeral Home

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