Allan Willie Henschel

A longtime Dawson Creek and former Gundy, Alberta resident, Allan W. Henschel passed away on October 18, 2021 at the age of 90 years--due to complications after a hip surgery. He had lived with a rare condition called Systemic Mastocytosis for many years. He was born in Cabri, Saskatchewan on June 8, 1931--the youngest of seven children to Adolf and Rosie Henschel.

In 2010, Al was predeceased by his wife, Mary, of 56 years.

Al is survived by his sister Pat Henschel of Edmonton, Alberta and sister-in-law Ann (Glenn) Henschel of New Westminster, BC. He is survived by his children Carol (Joe) Wachsmuth of Calgary, Alberta and sons Doug (Shelli) Henschel of Pouce Coupe, BC and Mike (D’Arcy d. 2017) Henschel of Airdrie, Alberta. Al leaves behind eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. As well, Al is survived by his sister and brother-in-law Violet and Victor Doblanko of Legal, Alberta and sisters-in-law Elsie Nestorovich of Westlock, Alberta and Barb Nestorovich of Spruce Grove, Alberta. There are numerous nieces and nephews, great, and now great great nieces and nephews on both sides of the family.

With a young family, Al’s job with CN took him to the Yukon. He worked on maintaining repeater stations up and down the Alaska Highway. In 1964, the family made the move south to settle in Dawson Creek. He then made the move to work for BC Tel as an installer. In the late 60’s and 70’s, Al was very involved with the Kodiak Junior Hockey Team which both his sons played for. For many years, he would flood his backyard as a practice rink for the boys. He was also a member of the Lions Club for a time--he served as President in 1978.

After a lengthy career with BC Tel, he and Mary bought a small hay farm in Gundy, Alberta in 1988. They raised a small herd of cattle and he grew organic hay and oats--he always planted a huge vegetable garden. Because of his health, in 2013 he sadly sold his beloved farm and returned to live in Dawson Creek. He was a resident of Spruceland Manor until his passing. He loved his Monday lunches at the Seniors Center and coffee time at McDonalds with his friends. He wanted to thank his fellow residents for their kindness and watchful eyes during the isolation of Covid--as well as the Northern Health Home Care workers for their assistance in his day to day needs over the past 10 months.

Arrangements for a Celebration of Life in Dawson Creek will be announced in the future.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either of the following: Both will issue a tax deductible receipt.

By cheque to:

Mastocytosis Society Canada

4305 Preston Crescent

Regina, Saskatchewan S4X 0C9

e-Transfer to: [email protected]

Stars Air Ambulance:

give.stars.ca Tribute Gifts

Or STARS FOUNDATION

1441 Aviation Park NE Calgary. AB T2E 8M7