Thomas Alan Hendrickson, age 75, passed away February 11, 2020 in DeWitt, MI following a short illness. He was born February 14, 1944 in Bessemer, MI to Alvin and Maxine (Hartwig) Hendrickson. Tom graduated from Wausau High School and from the University of Wisconsin. He earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Wisconsin in 1970. From 1970-1972 he was an assistant AG-Criminal Prosecution Unit for the Wisconsin Department of Justice. He was a Police Legal Advisor for the Lansing, MI Police Department from 1973-1974. He was a Supervising Attorney/Assistant Director at the International Association of Chiefs of Police in Washington, DC from 1974-1978. He served as the Executive Director of Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police (MACP) from 1978 until his retirement in 2011. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Alvin and Maxine Hendrickson, and his sister Susan H. Chandler. Tom is survived by his nephew John Chandler (his wife Renee and children Tommy and Tyler) and his niece Jennifer Chandler (her children Hannah Milligan and Zachary Milligan), many cousins, and numerous friends.
Tom was best known for his sense of humor and love of a good joke. His humility, integrity, kindness and love were known to all whose lives he touched. He loved playing golf with his friends, visiting with family and friends, and serving the law enforcement community. He was a survivor of childhood polio who never let that hinder him. In high school he played football and ran hurdles in track with his father's blessing despite reluctance from his doctors. Tom enjoyed reading historical accounts of World War II as his uncle had served as a physician. More than anything Tom valued the special relationships he had with family and close friends.
Tom guided MACP for more than 32 years. He was known for his leadership, mentorship, and for the friendships he developed in his years of service to the law enforcement family. He was thrilled when MACP named their annual summer conference golf tournament after him. During his illness Tom heard from dozens of chiefs and departments about the lasting impact he had, and it touched him deeply.
Tom will be missed by all who knew and loved him. A celebration of his life is being planned for spring 2020.
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