John Edward Hennessy

Comforted by loved ones, Lt Col John Edward Hennessy (USAF Ret.) peacefully passed away on May 12, 2012. Born in Strawberry Point, Iowa on May 31, 1926 to Martin Hennessy and Kathryn McDermott, he graduated from Strawberry Point High School at the age of 16. As soon as possible he joined the great fight of World War II, enlisting in the US Navy. Using the GI Bill, he graduated from the University of Iowa where he met the love of his life, Lillian “Billie” Welch. They were married on May 30, 1953. He enjoyed a career in the US Air Force as a pilot and communications officer. Retiring in 1969 he taught science at Lee High School for ten years and then retired to play golf at Windcrest Golf Club and to enjoy years of travel.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years and their four children, Mike Hennessy and wife Rhonda Ray, Katie and husband Steve Mangold, Mimi and husband Kevin Asher, and Jim and wife Lori Hennessy. He was a loving grandfather to Eric, David, Ryan (deceased), and Corey Mangold; Kelly and Evan Asher; and Blaine and Riley Hennessy.

Visitation will be 6 p.m., Monday, May 21, 2012 at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with a Rosary to be recited at 7 p.m. Funeral Mass will be 1 p.m., Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 6680 Crestway, San Antonio, TX 78239. Interment will follow at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery with Full Air Force Honors. Condolences may be offered at www.sunsetfuneralhomesa.com

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warriors of Fort Sam Houston.