Charles (Chuck) R. Henneman, 81 of Vestal, NY, passed away peacefully at sunrise on Sunday, June 20th, 2021 with his daughters by his side. He was predeceased by his parents, Earl and Elma (Muth) Henneman and his sister Ann Kibling
He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Joyce (Bunganich) Henneman; two daughters Brenda Henneman Langdon, Denise Henneman Houseknecht; three grandchildren Melissa and Christopher DePugh, Austin Bartlett; his sister Jane Cannon; his brothers Olin (Ruth) Henneman, Edward (Diana) Henneman; brother-in-law Lou Kibling, along with many nieces and nephews who loved him.
Chuck was a graduate of Union Endicott High School, Class of 1957. He was proud to be a West Endicott kid, writing articles full of memories he cherished growing up in West Endicott. With such fond memories of his childhood and classmates, Chuck worked tirelessly, with the help of close friends, to throw a 60th Class of 57’ Reunion for a 100+ classmates. A fabulous night was held by all.
A hard-working man, Chuck was a carpenter, a craftsman, a foreman/superintendent working for Nezlek, Sarkisian, and D&R Jones Construction companies. His beautiful, detailed work can be seen throughout the County and beyond. The “E.J.” homes and roofs he built are still standing. Chuck’s home has a beautifully crafted front porch that still receives compliments on the amazement of his work.
Chuck was proudly a Mason, sponsored by his father Earl and cousin Russ Henneman in 1961. He then moved on to the Kalurah Shrine, working his way up the chairs to become Illustrious Potentate 2000. Chuck loved being involved in every part of being a Shriner especially events that brought a smile to the children’s’ faces, the Shrine Circus and Easter and Christmas parties.
Chuck loved the old west, reading many novels about the life and times of the American cowboy. He could always be seen wearing his ten-gallon hat whenever he went out. His dream came true when he took a trail ride out west, cooking meals over the campfire. His Trail Guide was so impressed with Chuck’s knowledge of the old west, he extended the trail ride for hours giving Chuck a memory that would last a lifetime. Country music was his favorite, with Johnny Cash, Marty Robbins, and Hank Williams playing throughout the house.
A big child at heart, Chuck loved laughing and having fun, playing board games, and watching Disney movies with his family. You could always hear him laugh and knew right where he was in any theater! With his daughters, he excitedly searched Disney World for his favorite characters, Chip & Dale and Goofy to get their pictures. He loved the outdoors, camping and fishing were his favorites.
Of his many accomplishments, Chuck valued being a Dad and Dido, as his grandkids called him, the most. Nothing gave him more happiness than to be with his girls and grandchildren. He always had time to listen, share words of wisdom, his laughter and love, and join in on the crazy things they would do. He loved holiday feasts with Austin.
An athlete all his life, Chuck played basketball and softball with guys half his age. On weekends he rooted for his favorite teams, the NY Giants, NY Yankees and LA Lakers; Wilt Chamberlain was his favorite player. However, these teams didn’t compare to the teams his grandchildren would play on. Each game Dido could be found on the sidelines cheering and screaming encouragement. Watching Melissa play field hockey, at times he would find himself halfway on the field with excitement.
Every week, as Christopher’s biggest fan, Dido could always be found sitting on the soccer sidelines center field an hour before the game began. His voice could be heard across the field. The boys loved him and made Dido an honorary member of the team.
Chuck loved life, loved his family, and touched many lives with his laughter, good nature, willingness to help others, and zest for life. Chuck could sit by a stranger for five minutes and become best friends. Everyone who met him, loved Chuck. He will be deeply missed by his devoted family and friends.
“Who’s gonna fill their shoes? Who’s gonna stand that tall?”
Funeral services will be held Friday June 25th at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY at 11:00 AM with the Rev. Nathaniel Choma, officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Orthodox Cemetery, Endwell. The family will receive friends at the Pucedo Funeral Home on Thursday June 24th from 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM. The Rev. Nathaniel Choma will hold a Parastas Service Thursday evening at 7:00 PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to St. Mary’s Orthodox Church 1917 Jenkins St. Endicott, NY 13760.
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