Harold "Hal" Henderlong

Harold “Hal” Henderlong of Northville passed away September 17, 2024 at the age of 90. 

He was born June 6, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan to Raymond and Garnet Henderlong in a family of eventually nine children. He was predeceased by his brothers Calvin, Raymond, Don, Manuel and Vernon, and two of his sisters Norma and Betty. His sister Shirley (Mike) continues to proudly represent the family. 

Hal worked as a youth preparing hams for cooking, at a sod farm, and after graduation apprenticed in the Detroit printing industry. He worked for decades in that industry in downtown Detroit as a proofreader and in sales. Early on, he volunteered for and proudly served as a Corporal in the US Army overseas during the Korean War. 

As a young man, Hal married Bonnie Telling and they raised two children together. They were married for 20 years. He married Rose Marie in 1984 and they had 27 great years together before she died. He is father of John (Lori) Henderlong and Karen Henderlong. Step-father of David (Laura) Dubiel, Mary Lynn (Robert) Goryca, Joel (Judy) Dubiel, and the late Allan (Elaine also deceased) Dubiel. He is survived by his good friend Marilyn. 

Hal loved being Grandpa and was proud of his grandchildren: Allison (Jim), Benjamin (Susan), Cherilyn (Marc), Jasiel (Robin), Rachel (Jeff), Jill, Dawn (Colin), Joanna, Christopher (Samantha) and Renee (John). Great-grandfather of Bryce, Vaughn, Kennedy, Josephine, Lincoln, Marc, Diana, Nick, Zack, and Simeon (born 2 days after Hal died), Trent, Dean, Cameron, Hudson, and Roselene Elaine.

Hal made friends and connections where ever he went. He enjoyed his work family, neighbors on Ardmore and in Oakmont Northville and the greater community. He obtained his real estate license and took pride in selling homes to people who became his friends. He and Rose Marie became Master Gardeners, and deeply enjoyed volunteering at Tollgate, Belle Isle, and in the Florida plant sales. He was involved in square dancing, the Livonia and Farmington Hills Senior Centers, and traveled for many years with the Nomads. Hal greatly enjoyed playing cards, especially pinochle. Though he used to say it was like watching grass grow, he ended up loving bingo while at Oakmont. He was known for winning often. 

Hal’s grin, presence, humor, wisdom and companionship is already missed. Thank you for showing us how to continue growing as we age….

Memorial contributions may be directed to MSU Extension Tollgate Farm & Education Center.