Richard "Dick" Hensyel, 77, hero and role model, treasured father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother and beloved friend to many, crossed over on May 17, 2011, in Dalton Gardens. Dick was born Jan. 2, 1934, in Junction City, Ore., to LeRoy and Grace Hensyel.

He and sister Judith spent time growing up in the Lobster Valley near Alsea, Ore., and then traveling throughout the Northwest as their parents pursued church pastoring and missionary work. They landed in Thompson Falls, Mont., and this is where he spent the majority of his life. He went to school in Thompson Falls and married, Rose Louise (Landgraf) Hensyel where they settled in to raise a family of four children.

Dick was active in his community and enjoyed time spent with the Jaycees, Search & Rescue, Boy Scouts, Elks and many other groups. He was well versed in many trades. He owned HHH Logging, whose motto was "We Farm the Forest." He was a self-taught electrician, plumber, carpenter and all-around handyman, which was very useful for another of his loves - real estate investing.

At one time, Dick and Louise owned 24 rentals in Thompson Falls, a huge commitment and opportunity that they loved. He always had a soft spot for those in need and helped countless down on their luck or otherwise. He always said, "They must have needed it more than me." And he meant it. He was a father-figure to many and provided for his family plus - there was always an extra plate at the table or person under his roof. He was strong and a gentle soul and there when you needed him.

Dick modeled a strong work ethic, honesty, responsibility, old fashioned perseverance, entrepreneurship, service to others and LOVE for All. His sense of humor, willingness to accept, intuitive forward thinking and intelligence earned him respect from all ages. His devotion as a caretaker was exemplary and admired.

He enjoyed jitterbugging, fishing, camping, reading, music, mining and gemology, tinkering, research and a good steak. He beamed with pride while telling stories of his life and region. Being involved in the World Record Logging Haul in 1972 was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity he loved.

For the last 13 years, Dick shared his time between Montana and Idaho, working construction for ACI and living in Post Falls to be near family.

Dick was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Louise (1998), grandson Curtis M. Lawson and mother Grace Anderson Hensyel (2004).

He is survived by his father, LeRoy M. Hensyel (100 years) of Hayden; son Rick Hensyel (partner Denise Jaeger) of Thompson Falls; daughter Debbie Hensyel Lawson of Coeur d'Alene; daughter Sharon Hensyel Caswell (Husband Jack M. Caswell) of Dalton Gardens; son David Hensyel; sister Judith Hensyel Mestrovich of Post Falls; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and countless friends.

A memorial service for Richard is scheduled at 1 p.m. Friday, June 17, 2011, at the Family Worship Center, 697 W. Dakota, Hayden.

Memorial contributions can be made in Richard's name to Hospice of North Idaho, who were incredible making his last month's comfortable and memorable.