Chuck Hendrickson

May 15, 1931 -November 15, 2020

I can only imagine the celebration that took place in Heaven, when Chuck was reunited with his loving granddaughter, Jodi (Oborn) and other loved ones waiting to greet him. I am confident that only his Savior could have possibly been more thrilled for his home coming!

Chuck Hendrickson, of Faribault was 89 years old, when his battle with COVID-19 ended on Sunday, November 15, 2020 at Mayo Clinic Hospital, St. Mary’s Campus, Rochester.

Chuck will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 70 years, Winnie; son, Ron & wife, Patty; daughter, Bonnie (Oborn) & husband, Steve, son, Dan & wife, Debbie. Eleven grandchildren lost one of their biggest fans. All eleven: Jamie, Jill, Ronnie, Tami, Jodi, Shane, Heather, Tara, Derek, Darren and Tiffany adored their grandpa! In addition, twenty-two great grandchildren were blessed to have had Grandpa Chuck, in their lives.

Chuck (Buddy, as he was called growing up) was born in Starbuck, Minnesota on May 15, 1931, to Carl & Olga (Opdahl) Hendrickson. Chuck had one older brother, James Hendrickson who passed before him, as did his parents.

In 1950, Chuck married the love of his life, Winnie (Plaisted), on June 4, in Watertown, South Dakota.

Chuck’s early years were devoted to working construction and automobile sales. His friendly personality and hard work ethic were the cornerstones of a successful business career. In 1955, Chuck and Winnie, moved to Stillwater, MN to adventure into the world of Dairy Queen. It soon became a passion, and they invested the next 65 years building a legacy in the industry. As a result of their efforts, doors were opened for their children, multiple grandchildren, and hundreds of other individuals to follow in their footsteps.

Beyond working together in business, family relationships were monumental in Chuck’s life. The love and support Chuck shared with his entire family, was unlimited. Priceless memories, countless family vacations, and his unconditional love has been cherished throughout four generations. Chuck’s special birthday gift to family members, was a phone-call and “happy birthday serenade.” While it may have lacked musical quality, it will forever remain GOLD in our memory.

Chuck was thee classic, people person. His most beautiful quality was his abundance of love for others! He thrived on striking up conversation with everyone he encountered. He was genuinely interested in everyone he met and wanted to hear their story. He loved people, he searched for their best, and was generous with grace. His contagious laugh and warm hugs will be missed by many.

Chuck’s life could not be honored without acknowledging the rich friendships and relationships that were established throughout his years. Each of you know who you are. Chuck loved to reminisce of the great memories he shared with friends.

Chucks favorite way to begin his day was meeting up with his ‘coffee group’ to hash over the problems of the world. As Chuck would say, “We’ve got the answers, we’re just looking for more questions.”

Chuck’s strong faith and belief in Jesus Christ is by far the most valuable principle he instilled in those of us who loved him. It is that foundation, that provides us the assurance that this is not “goodbye” but “we’ll see you later.”

In light of recent surge in COVID-19 cases, the family has decided to defer the celebration of Chuck’s life until 2021. A tentative date of May 15 is being considered, which would have been his 90th birthday.