Hendrickson, Rebecca C.

Rebecca C. Hendrickson, 91, of McGregor, Iowa, passed away Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, at Bethany St. Joseph Care Center, La Crosse, Wis.

She was born Sept. 10, 1921, in rural Waukon, Iowa, to Herman and Emma Snitker. Rebecca graduated from Waukon High School in 1939 and from Cedar Rapids School of Cosmetology in 1940. She worked in Waukon and Decorah as a beautician and moved to McGregor in 1941, eventually owning her own business, Becky's Beauty Shop, which she operated in her home until her retirement in 1986. Rebecca married William Hendrickson on Nov. 20, 1946. He preceded her in death on Dec. 26, 1982. After Becky's retirement from her beauty shop, she was employed as housekeeper and cook at St. Mary's Catholic Church rectory, McGregor. Rebecca worked hard all her life, in part due to the Dutch/German work ethic she grew up with. In her last 30 years, she was “Gramma Becky” like no other. Her grandchildren adored her. And she loved them to a fault!

Our mom was a humble, wise, gentle, loving lady. Her love for us was fierce and unabated. She kept our family going through many storms. Her faith never wavered, and this is another gift we received from our mom. Becky's grandchildren will never forget her patience, her interesting stories about the farm, her wonderful cooking and always treats and soup, her sense of fun and her outstanding belief in them. They will have this forever. It was always a good day when Gramma's little Iowa car drove up in front. In her retirement, mom had time to walk (which she truly loved). She especially loved walking up to the McGregor Heights, where she always felt welcome and made lots of friends. She also observed nature on her walks and told her children and grandchildren many stories of things she saw in the woods.

Our mother was not one to look back and dwell on things. We will try to honor you, mom, and look ahead to what you taught us.

We know you are watching over us, just as you did all our lives. We love you.

Rebecca is survived by her loving daughter, Kathryn (Richard) Banasik of La Crosse, Wis., and her loving son, Dennis D. Hendrickson of Clive, Iowa. She is survived by her beloved grandson, Jonathan (Renee Glaunert) Banasik of La Crosse, Wis., and her beloved granddaughters, Anna Banasik and Amy Banasik, both of La Crosse, Wis.

Rebecca was predeceased by her four brothers and one sister.

Please send condolences to Kathy Banasik at 114 S. 27th St., La Crosse, WI 54601, if desired. Thank you.

In accordance with Rebecca's wishes, there will be no visitation or memorial service. A private burial service will take place at a later date. Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home, McGregor, is assisting the family.

Published Dec. 23, 2012 in The Gazette