It is with immeasurable sadness that the children of Dellas “Ray” Henke announce his passing at home in Fairport on May 5th, surrounded by loving family at the tender age of 96.
He was predeceased by parents Henry and Isabelle Henke, ten brothers, one sister and his beloved wife of 67 years Carmela (Crupi). He is survived by 4 children, Randolph (Cheryl), Lauren Minni (Joseph), Dellas and Timothy (Damien) 4 grandchildren, Randy (Tonya), Chad (Heather), Matthew, and Jason (Allison), 5 great grandchildren and an abundance of nieces and nephews coast to coast.
Dellas grew up in Newport , Idaho where in 1944 he was drafted into the Army at the age of 19 and assigned to the 137 Infantry, 1st Battalion. He landed in Normandy and fought on the front lines earning a Purple Heart and
Bronze Star for heroic service against enemies of the Allies near Lorey, France where he sustained serious injury. Back in the US while receiving extensive medical care, he met the love of his life Carmela , a beautiful Army nurse.
He was a devoted husband, father and grandparent, with a passion for music, food, learning and story telling. A man with exceptional kindness and integrity, he was a hero to all of us.
The boundless love and support Dellas received from so many caregivers is undefinable. We will never forget.
Graveside Memorial Service to be held at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery Saturday, May 15th at 11:00.
In lieu of flowers, Dellas would love for you to do an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness in his name. (Or donate to the charity of your choice.)