Robert Henningsen passed from this life at 6:45 p.m., Friday, Jan. 1, 2010, surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Henningsen was born in Tuscola, Il. Sept. 7, 1937, the only
son of Otto and Clara (Rahn) Henningsen. He married his beloved wife Deanna (Cousins) Henningsen on Oct. 14, 1956. She survives along with 4 children, son, Brian (Debby) of Atwood, daughters, Cristal (Brian) Lowry, Sadorus, Karin (Gaylin) Binion, Sadorus, Katrina, (Paul) Messmore, Atwood, 34 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 2 more on the way; 1 sister, Joyce (Jerry) Alexander, Tuscola and a cousin Betty Leonard, Tuscola who was raised by his parents. He was preceded in death by his parents and 1 grand-daughter.

Bob was raised on the farm he loved in rural Atwood. A lifelong farmer, he enjoyed his cattle and horses. As an accomplished horse trainer, he was involved in breeding, training and racing. He was a 4-H leader for many years in Douglas County, mentoring many young people. Bob also served as superintendent of Il. State Fair Draft Horse Shows and Quarter Horse Racing. While farming was his love, he also worked for years at U.S.I. Tuscola, for the Il. Highway Dept. and the U of I Beef Farm.

His family and his faith were the most important aspects of his life. Even though handicapped his last 14 years, he was a constant companion to his grandchildren and an inspiration to countless others who called him "Grandpa". His faith in Jesus Christ saw him through many struggles and remained constant even to his last hour.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, Jan. 5, 4-8 p.m. at Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, Rt. 36, Atwood. Funeral services will be Wednesday, Jan. 6 at 1:00 p.m. at the Christian Family Fellowship Meeting Hall (The Building) 18 Co. Rd. 500 E. Sadorus, Il. with burial following at Lewis Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Arthur Okaw Christian Athletic Fund or to Christian Family Fellowship Charity Fund. Condolences may be sent and information accessed at www.everybodylovedbob.blogspot.com or hilligossshraderfh.com.