Robert “Bob” Louis Hendrickson, 96, passed away on April 11, 2024, at the Covenant Care Center in Turlock, CA. Born in Philadelphia, PA on September 19, 1927, Bob embarked on a path that would see him serve his country and explore the skies.
Bob’s military career began at the age of 17 when he enlisted in the US Navy in October 1944. He was initially stationed at the Naval Air Technical Training Center in Memphis, Tennessee, where he trained as a radio telegrapher—a skill perhaps influenced by his mother’s profession as a telephone operator. His military service took him to various posts, including the Naval Air Gunners School in Oklahoma and onboard the U.S.S. Pandemus. He earned the WWII Victory Medal and the American Theatre Medal, marking his contributions during crucial times.
One notable episode from his service was in 1946, when he, as an aviation radioman third class, and his pilot were rescued by the Coast Guard after their Helldiver plane was forced to ditch in the Pacific due to engine trouble. This incident was a testament to his calm under pressure and his ability to handle emergency situations.
After being honorably discharged in October 1947, Bob used the GI Bill to transition into civilian aviation. He received his commercial radiotelephone license, and his career as a flight navigator and radio operator took him around the globe. He worked for several airlines, including Transocean Airlines, Overseas National Airways, and TWA, navigating the skies of the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. His professional acumen was consistently lauded, with colleagues noting his “invaluable” ability to learn new procedures rapidly.
Bob’s post-military life was rich with adventure and achievement. Alongside Ruby, his wife of 55 years, he explored the world, from the peaks of the Grand Tetons to the savannahs of Tanzania. His love for aviation remained a constant, fueling his work and hobbies alike. He was a member of several aviation societies and enjoyed being a docent at the Hiller Aviation Museum.
Bob leaves a legacy of bravery, adventure, and compassion, remembered by his daughter Marcy Wenke, niece Linda, and close friends Eivor and Kurt Pfannkuch and Lois Schneider. His story is a powerful reminder of the profound impact one life can have.
Bob is preceded in death by his wife Ruby (1935-2020), a brother Edward (1935-2019); a nephew, Robert L., (1964-1986), and his parents Hiram Hendrickson (1896-1973) and Anna Mae (Riesch) (1899-1983).
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