Robert Brown Kinder Henry - 4/27/1927 - 9/2/2015 "The first time I can remember hearing Bob speak was in the 4th grade, when he was so excited about the clarinet his grandfather Kinder had given him for Christmas," said childhood sweetheart Eleanor Records. "He went on and on about his grandfather and about his new horn." Bob Henry was passionate about music and sports. He joined the Laurel High School Band while only in the 7th grade, played in the orchestra, sang in the choir, and even started his own orchestra to play at high school dances. He also excelled on the football, baseball, and basketball teams. "He was so busy with sports," said Eleanor, "that about the only time he spoke to me was to ask if he could walk me home from choir practice. He got my attention when he took it upon himself to go to my grandmother's work, and asked her right there in the middle of the factory if he could take me bowling. I thought he was very brave. Coach Schollenberger said that "When Bob made up his mind to do something, nothing deterred him." Bob's determination saw him through naval service and a degree from the University of Maryland, during which time he and Eleanor married and began their family. He worked hard and rose through the ranks, eventually serving as Vice President at two of the fastest growing companies in American history. But he always made time to coach his children's Little League teams and take them to Broadway shows, orchestra performances, and Beatles concerts. Bob and Eleanor followed opportunity in 1966, taking their three teenage boys and infant daughter to Southern California, and living 38 of their 40 years there in Claremont, a town with a rich religious and academic culture. Still, they returned to Laurel every summer to stay close to their parents and roots. Bob was active all his life in the Methodist church, and in 2006 he and Eleanor retired to the Methodist Manor House in Seaford. Though Bob had been the star of his high school football, basketball, and baseball teams, none of his children can remember his ever talking about it. Instead, he encouraged them to find their passions. "I don't think Dad had an enemy in this world," said son Todd. "He always had a hearty greeting and kind words for everyone." Daughter Susan added, "I've never in my life heard my father raise his voice. He was the kindest man I've ever known." Robert Brown Kinder Henry died at home on August 2. The last word Eleanor heard him speak was her name. He is survived by the only woman he ever loved, and the children and grandchildren he adored: Eleanor; Kirk, Todd, and Susan; and Andrew and Christopher. He was predeceased by his eldest son, Robert Derrick Henry, who avidly shared his twin passions of music and sports. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2015 at 2 p.m. at Centenary United Methodist Church in Laurel. A viewing will also be held one hour prior to the service. The Rev. Joseph G. Burris will officiate. Interment will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of the Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home Laurel, DE.