Greg Baker Hennefer, who never met a stranger, crossed through the veil on December 9th, 2022, after a brief illness.
Greg is survived by his wife of 37 years, Nancy, his daughter Kimerly, son-in-law, Troy and grandchildren Liam and Kascata Hurley. Greg was so proud of them, loved them unconditionally and was equally proud of Kimerly and Troy. Also survived by younger brothers Dave (Christy) and Mike (Val) whom he dearly loved, and sharing the most ridiculous and hysterical stories and memories (true or not!). He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews from his Hennefer lineage. Also left behind are his brother-in-law Tom Hofsommer, Tom’s wife Diane, niece Molly and her husband Agustin.
Greg’s parents Mac and Norma are delighted to welcome him into the Kingdom of Heaven, along with both paternal and maternal grandparents, and Nancy’s parents and brother.
Greg’s professional life centered around sales and management positions in the construction industry and had expertise in most everything including windows, roofing and cabinetry.
He was blessed to have a devoted circle of friends from his many interests and hobbies. He was passionate about aviation and loved to take his RV9 for quick flights around the area followed by hanging out in his airport hanger with his pals while they discussed enough topics to justify the many hours of avoiding their chores at home. Along with “Big” plane flying, Greg was an integral member of the Tokay Remote Control Modelers Club, having served every club officer position to keep the club vibrant and growing. Many mornings were spent at the Flying Field, greeting newcomers, tinkering with each other’s remote-control planes, enjoying his time with the guys. Other clubs and organizations included the Tokay A’s Model A Ford Club. Thanks to the help and guidance from the Tokay A’s members, Greg was able to get the Hofsommer family’s 1928 Model A Coupe up and running. He always found a way to figure things out, even if it took 7 tries and multiple trips to the hardware store. Greg served on the Board of Directors of the Lodi Grape Festival and was recently appointed as a member of the San Joaquin County Aviation Advisory Committee.
Many of his long-time friends were his golf and poker buddies. Life included tennis, sailing, fishing, supporting the SF Giants and 49er’s, early morning walks at Lodi Lake with his walking friends, his beagles Mason and Brody, and countless adventures with Nancy. Many thanks to Jan Hoehn, who was an important part of his early adulthood.
Special thanks to Dr. Ken Mullen, Dani Bassett FNP, Dr. Edmund Freund for caring for Greg throughout the years, and the 4th floor staff of Lodi Memorial Hospital in his final days.
To honor and celebrate Greg, a ceremony of light, love and great memories will be held on Thursday, January 5th, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Cherokee Memorial Vineyard Chapel, followed by a reception at the Lodi Grape Festival, Burgundy Hall. Somber attire discouraged. In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice would be welcome.
Tutto Bene, my best friend. Tutto Bene.
Greg Hennefer
Published by Lodi-News Sentinel from Dec. 22 to Dec. 29, 2022.