Kenneth Brian Hendrickson

Kenneth Brian Hendrickson Sr., aged 62 went home to be with the lord on February 12th, 2022 in his home with his beloved wife by his side.
His memory will be carried on by his high school sweetheart and wife of 44 years Tina Hendrickson (nee Polanski) who was the love of his life. Together they shared adventures, memories, and children Rachel (Kristina), Kenneth Jr. (Christine), and Julie Christopher (Ryan); 10 beloved grandchildren. Ken is also survived by his sister Sherrie Eldreth (Dave) and brother Jim (Sandi); and many nieces and nephews.
Ken was born on June 14th, 1959 to James and Hilda Hendrickson and was 1 of 7 children. He graduated from Manchester High School in 1977. He was a dedicated and accomplished employee serving in several capacities at PPG Industries for over 40 years.
Ken had an infectious smile and gregarious laugh that was unmistakable along with a true gift for providing unconditional love and support to everyone in his life. A loving husband and devoted father, Ken always prioritized the happiness and joy of others before himself. As a father, he was patient, gentle, committed, and present in ways that his adult children now recognize and appreciate as incredibly rare. Ken never smoked, drank, or cursed and instead imbibed every day with a convincing, sophisticated, and loving level of sarcasm. He was an extremely active member of the Suffield community through involvement in the various activities that his children were a part of. He was never content to be a spectator and enjoyed taking on coaching, leadership, and administrative roles whenever available.
His grandchildren enjoyed his breakfasts, sitting in his chair with him, kisses on the forehead, and stealing away for special one on one trips with their "Papa Ken."
Ken held lifelong interest in both bowling and horses passed down to him by his father. Despite never placing his own wagers he always enjoyed going to the horse track and helping others understand the sport. He participated in numerous Akron area bowling leagues and tournaments throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of countless individuals that were influenced by his expertise and coaching.
Overcoming an irrational fear of drowning in even the most shallow water, he owned and captained many vessels throughout his life with the most recent being "The Ted." His fondest vacations were those spent with family at the lake on a houseboat.
Among his other interests, Ken loved a good book, preparing meals for others, and being the "intellectual authority" on everything. He loved watching Cleveland sports and watching reruns of classic TV. His family will miss his proficiency and guidance on challenges no matter how great or how small.
Countless individuals have reached out, shared positive memories, and mourned this unexpected loss with the family.
Calling hours will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron 44305 on Friday, February 18, 2022 from 5PM-8PM. Services will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at 11 a.m. with visitation from 10 a.m. until the start of the service at Connect Church, 578 Killian Road, Akron 44319 officiated by Pastor Ryan Christopher. Committal to be held at Hillside Memorial Park 1025 Canton Road, Akron 44312 directly following service.