Gary Joseph Hennessey

Gary Joseph Hennessey was born on October 28, 1943, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Edward James and Rita Lorraine (McQuirk) Hennessey. He attended Bishop Heelan High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967 where he obtained his rank as Sergeant. During the Vietnam War era, he was stationed in Germany. He won awards for expert rifleman and the national defense service medal. Following his military service, Gary moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where he started working at Western Electric where he met his loving wife, Sandie. He later went on to a successful career in information technology with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska. He was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and dependability. On March 17, 1972, Gary married the love of his life, Sandie Hanson, in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service, raising their two sons, Shane and Jason, in Valley, Nebraska. Gary was a devoted husband, a proud father, and later an adoring grandfather. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his family and celebrating their accomplishments. Gary's faith was the cornerstone of his life. In 1989, he was ordained as a deacon in the Catholic Church, beginning a ministry that would touch countless lives. He faithfully served for more than 30 years, offering compassion, guidance, and a servant's heart to everyone he encountered. One of Gary's greatest passions was serving those in need through the St. Vincent de Paul Society. He regularly brought communion to the sick and homebound. He helped serve the poor by helping them get access to meals as well as clothing and financial resources. He believed deeply in living his faith through action and found great purpose in helping others with humility, kindness, and dignity. Gary embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved coaching youth baseball, riding his Harley, cheering on his favorite sports teams, and being active in his church community. He also had a special love for animals, especially dogs. His compassion extended to all of God's creatures, reflecting the kindness that defined the way he lived his life. He was also known for his warm sense of humor and quick wit. He was always ready with a good joke or a laugh, bringing joy to family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know him. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Rita Lorraine Hennessey; his brother, James Hennessey; and his sister, Sharon Mickelson. He is lovingly survived by his wife of 53 years, Sandra Hennessey; sons, Shane (Mollie) and Jason (Jenny) Hennessey; and brother, Larry Hennessey. Grandchildren: Thomas (Payton) Christoffersen, Joseph Hennessey, Noah Hennessey, Mia Hennessey, Emma Hennessey, Regan Hennessey, and Kailey Hennessey. Great grandchild, Cassian Christoffersen. Gary will be remembered for his unwavering faith, steadfast devotion to his family, humble service to others, and the kindness and laughter he shared so freely. His legacy of love, compassion, and faithful service will continue to inspire all who knew him. In Lieu of flowers, family suggests memorials to St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Gary Joseph Hennessey

October 28, 1943 - August 2, 2026