Harold J. Henningsen

Harold (John) Henningsen, son of John and Bertha (Lefeldt) Henningsen, was born September 10, 1922, in Goodrich Township. He died Wednesday, February 1, 2017, at the age of ninety-four, on the family farm where he was born, near Denison.
Harold was baptized December 12, 1924 by Pastor Wm. Frese and confirmed by Pastor Carl Schmidt on March 20, 1938. Harold received his education in rural schools of Goodrich Township No. 1 and after graduation, he worked on the family farm. On January 17, 1945, he was united in marriage to Ellen Schultz, and they were blessed with 5 children. As they developed their own farming operation, Harold and Ellen raised corn, oats, hay, horses, Angus cattle, Holstein dairy cattle, stock cows, Hampshire hogs and chickens. The couple milked 6-8 cows by hand and sold the milk.
Harold helped start the local Good Handy Helpers 4H Club, where he served as a club leader for 25 years. He also served 2 terms on the extension council, was a long term member of the Crawford County Fair Board, Silver Spurs Saddle Club, the Black Angus Cattle Association, and numerous shows and clubs. Harold made friends through The Circle and Swing Square Dance Club for 30 years. He enjoyed farming and retired from farming at the age of 80.
Harold lived his life on the farm he was born on. It was a century farm of 115 years in 2010. At age 93, he was still mowing the lawn and on January 17, 2017, he and Ellen celebrated their 72nd anniversary. Harold was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His favorite activities included socializing, and spending time with his children, grandkids and great-grandkids.
Harold was preceded in death by four sisters and three brothers: Milda Heide, Irene Sachau, Emily Schurke, Bernice Holdsworth, Walter Henningsen, Milroy Henningsen and Henry Henningsen; one daughter, Betty; one grandson, Gene. He is survived by his wife, Ellen; two sons; Howard Henningsen and his wife, Linda; and John Henningsen and his wife, Kimberlee; two daughters; Beverly Ransom and her husband, Steve and Brenda Blum and special friend, Jamie; fifteen grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren; son-in-law, Bill Coon; sister-in-law, Virgie Deiber-Henningsen; other relatives and friends.
“ I was just a Farmer”