Craig B. Hench

Born November 6, 1945, in Baltimore, Maryland, Craig was the youngest son of Donald and Kaye Hench. He graduated from Loyola College in Baltimore with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Economics. On April 28, 1973, he married the love of his life, Joanne, and together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family.

Craig began his professional career as a Tax Auditor with the Internal Revenue Service, where his sharp mind and strong work ethic led him to the position of GS-15, Assistant Regional Commissioner (Resources Management). After 15 years of federal service, he embraced a new chapter of entrepreneurship in 1982 when he and Joanne opened a New York-style deli in Marietta, Georgia (Bob’s Deli). Their children spent many cherished hours there—making memories among regular customers, fresh bagels, slush puppies, and the hum of the Pac-Man machine.

Following their deli venture, Craig found purpose in helping others through roles in the insurance industry with Aid Association for Lutherans and Modern Woodmen of America. He later worked with Albertson’s food stores before joining the Florida Office of Financial Regulation. For two decades, Craig served with distinction as a financial analyst/examiner for the Bureau of Enforcement, Division of Securities, before retiring in 2021.

A devoted member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Lake Mary for over 35 years, Craig served faithfully as an usher, on church boards, and through numerous volunteer activities. His faith was a quiet but constant presence in his life.

Craig will be remembered for his unwavering integrity, deep love for his family, and gentle sense of humor. He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Joanne; his children Daniel Hench (wife, Kristen), Jennifer Pendley (husband, Ryan), and Jill VanDamme (husband, Ben); and his treasured grandchildren: Brenden (21), Haley (17), Isaiah (17), Kenan (14), Cody (14), Hannah (12), and Carsyn (12). He is also survived by his brother, Eric Hench (wife, Marilyn).

A celebration of life service to honor Craig’s life will be held Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Holy Cross Lake Mary, 960 Paul Hoyer Way, Lake Mary, FL 32746.

Craig and his family have been devoted members of Holy Cross since its founding. All three of his children were active in the church’s youth group, and Craig was always eager to support their efforts, believing deeply in the positive impact the group had on the lives of young people and the community.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider honoring Craig’s memory by making a donation to the Holy Cross Lake Mary youth group. Contributions can be made through the Holy Cross Lake Mary website. Please select "Youth.HCLM" when donating.

https://www.fellowshiponegiving.com/App/Giving/cflcn/HCLM