John Alfred Henke

Col. John "Jack" Henke, USAF (ret.) was born in Yonkers, New York to Elizabeth and John Henke, youngest brother to Vivian and Vera Henke. His family lived in Rochelle Park, New Jersey. John attended seminary in New Jersey to become a priest. Much to the joy of his three children, that was not his calling. He joined his father in the Steel Workers Union during his high school and college years. He was a magician, insurance salesman, Pro-Am bowler for Pabst Blue Ribbon, figure skater (roller skates), and dance instructor. A true Jack-of-all-trades. But the jitter-bug didn't keep him dancing long as he felt the pull to serve his country.

Serving on flight crews in both Korea and Viet Nam campaigns, John Henke was a gunner (B-29), a navigator & flight engineer (B-36), flying thousands of hours in a wide variety of aircraft in the Air Force inventory. Part of Strategic Air Command, he served as an emergency preparedness advisor for many years during his years assigned to the Pentagon and March Air Force base.

It was during his early military career that he met his wife, JoyceLynn. They went on to open and run a dance studio and raise their family of three boys, John, Kevin and George in New Jersey, Virginia, finally landing in California.

After his distinguished military career of more than 30 years, he went on to earn his Doctorate in Psychology becoming a well-known leader in the field of chemical addiction. He owned his own counseling and chemical addiction outpatient treatment program, developing a training course to inspire future interventionists. He was a chemical addiction course writer and professor, as well as a professor of mathematics, psychology and religious studies at the local community college.

Serving as a deacon at his catholic church for many years, John provided countless pro-bono counseling hours to parishioners.

An active member of the community and charitable organizations, his smile, spirit, and sense of humor will be missed.

John is survived by his loving wife, JoyceLynn, two sons, John and George, as well as grandchildren Kevin and Jacqualine (Kevin), Sarah and Emma (George).

The Henke family thanks you for your words of comfort and condolence. During these uncertain times of Covid-19, a celebration of life may be scheduled when safety can be assured for all.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to any of these organizations in John's name:

Alzheimer's Association https://www.alz.org/

Vietnam Veterans of America https://vva.org/donate/

American Diabetes Association https://www.diabetes.org