Frederick David Henning

Frederick (Fred) David Henning, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and educator, passed away peacefully in Nanaimo BC, with his family beside him.

He was the devoted husband of Audrey, with whom he shared a lifetime of partnership and travel. He was a proud and supportive father to Derek (Silvia) and Scott (Teresa), and a cherished Grandpa to Ryan, Owen, Anna, Karys, and Rhaedyn. Fred is also survived by his siblings Earl, Alan, Anne, and families, as well as numerous cousins.

Born in Scott, Saskatchewan, to Mary and Adolph Henning, Fred’s early life was defined by the rigors of a family farm. Though he eventually wandered westward, he always carried the values of the farm throughout his life; humility, hard work, practical wisdom, and a good nature.

It was the close bond with his cousins in the Lower Mainland that eventually drew him to the coast, influencing his decision to build a life in British Columbia and transition from his early teaching days in Alberta to the shores of Vancouver Island.

In the 1970s, Fred settled his family in Ladysmith, and later Nanaimo, where he became a fixture of the local education community. Throughout the 70s, 80s, and 90s, "Mr. Henning" was a respected Math teacher and coach in North Nanaimo. He had a gift for bringing logic and clarity to his students, both in the classroom and on the court, leaving an impact on generations of Island youth.

Fred was a man who loved the journey as much as the destination. His early adventures were marked by extensive road trips in the family van, which eventually gave way to international travel. Fred and Audrey explored more than 30 countries, returning to many of them multiple times to soak in the culture, history, and natural beauty. In his downtime he was a voracious reader, pool player, and card shark.

In keeping with Fred’s practical and humble nature, he has requested that no formal service be held. Instead of a ceremony, he preferred a legacy of joyful remembrance. He asked those who knew him, please take a moment to recall a special memory, and share a smile in his honor. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Parkinsons Society British Columbia https://parkinson.bc.ca/ways-to-give