Jason G. Henkel 1982-2024

It is with the greatest sadness in my heart to tell you all that Jason passed away this afternoon around 2:50pm.  

Last weekend on Saturday the 3rd, Jason had what they call the "final surge", he was sitting up talking and asking for things.  Was giving out hugs and interacting with us well.  That all changed on Sunday the 4th, he became more and more confused and frustrated that he was unable to communicate with us as well as he would have liked, and more and more agitated.  I also woke up on Monday with a bug which now I think may have been Covid or a really bad flu.  It was horrible, which knocked me out for several days, and I felt so helpless.  Jessica came over to stay and stayed the nights with us to help me and I will forever appreciate her for that.  

Thursday morning was the last time that Jason really spoke to any of us, and to my surprise after not being able to communicate well for days, told me he loved me and gave me a hug.  Later that day Felix, the nurse came by and cleaned him up a bit.  He opened his eyes to take a look at Felix and that would be the last time he had them open.  Later that evening he fell into a coma. 

He kind of coasted through the weekend, until last night when I noticed a change in his breathing, and then waking up this morning, Jessica and I could tell things had changed drastically overnight.  We called Glen and my parents; we all took turns checking in and sitting with him throughout the day.  And around 2:50pm Jason stopped breathing and went home to Jesus. 

Jason was such a light for so many, his snarky comments were actually terms of endearment (I always said if he isn't teasing you that's when you should worry), his love for so many and the way he could connect with just about anyone. His passing will leave a big hole in many of our hearts.  

The kids and I want to say how much your support has meant to us over the years and especially the last few months.  All the kind messages are read, I hope you all know that even if you don't receive a response.  Thank you, it is all felt and appreciated. 

I will keep you posted in the next few days about the service, we are looking at the end of September.  I have some big ideas for it that will take some time to plan, and I may call on a few of you for help.