Clarence E. Henke M.D.

Clarence Henke was born March 5, 1934 in South Saint Paul, Minnesota. He was the first in his family to attend college when he enrolled at University of Minnesota on a football scholarship in 1952. He married his high school sweetheart, Roberta Diedrich, in December 1953 and they moved to Colorado so he could attend the University of Denver. He developed an interest in mining so he transferred to the engineering program at Colorado School of Mines. With their first child on the way, Clarence and Roberta moved back to Minnesota to be near family, and he received his Geological Engineering degree from the University of Minnesota in 1958. Clarence developed an interest in public health so he applied to medical school and graduated from the University of Minnesota with his M.D. degree in 1963, and a Master of Public Health degree in 1964. He first became Board Certified in Preventive Medicine and later sought training in Internal Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, and Nuclear Medicine. Ultimately, he also became Board Certified in Family Practice, Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Occupational Medicine. He practiced medicine in Minnesota, Colorado, New York, Maryland, Kentucky, Texas and Oklahoma; but for the past 20 years they called Colorado their home. He enjoyed playing hockey until he was 60, won several community singles and doubles tennis tournaments, but his lifelong love was hiking in Colorado. He climbed most of the 14ers, solo, and his descriptions of unplanned bivouacs and shortcuts driven by imminent storms became family legends. Most Father's Days were spent with family hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. Dr. Henke is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Roberta (Diedrich) Henke; his son, Kevin Henke; and daughter, Gwendolyn ""Wendy"" Henke (Paul Swenson). He is also survived by three grandchildren, Brian Swenson (Beverly), Kristin Swenson, and Eric Swenson; and one great-grandson, Hendrix Swenson. He was predeceased by sister, Phyllis. A private burial was held January 18, 2019 at Golden Cemetery.

A Memorial Service with reception will be held Saturday, April 27, 2019 at 11 AM at Hosanna Lutheran Church, 10304 W Belleview Ave, Littleton, Colorado 80127. All are welcome to attend. Donations in memory of Dr. Henke may be made to Hosanna Lutheran Church, or a favorite charity of the donor's choice.

Memorial Service: April 27, 2019 11:00 am

Hosanna Lutheran Church
10304 W. Belleview Ave.
Littleton, CO 80127
303-973-1706