Obituary of Theodore Henning

Theodore W. Henning of Plandome, NY passed away on April 6, 2023 after a brief illness.  He was 97 years old.

Ted was the youngest of four children of George and Else Henning.  He was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, where he attended Adelphi Academy.  Ted enlisted in the US Navy V-12 Program upon graduation from high school during World War II and was assigned to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) engineering program.  Following his assignment on the USS Montpelier, Ted attended Columbia Business School under the GI Bill.  He was recalled by the Navy in 1952 to serve in the Korean War aboard the USS Midway. Following his military service, Ted worked at the family business, Belmont Metals, in Brooklyn for almost 70 years, making him the longest serving employee in Belmont’s 125+ year history.

Ted was very connected to Manhasset where he lived for 60 years.  Many close friends were from his beloved Congregational Church and Manhasset Bay Yacht Club. He enjoyed many happy years sailing, skiing, stargazing, and traveling with his family and friends. Ted also served as a member of the Manhasset School Board for six years in the 1970’s, including a term as President.  

Many remember Ted as being truly unique in his curiosity about everyone and everything.  In recent years, his limited hearing and mobility did not stop him, and he stayed actively connected with everyone through his many emails and texts. They often included information relevant to that person’s life, and he always loved receiving updates and photos in return. In regards to world issues, Ted was particularly passionate about population growth and its impact on the earth. He remained mentally sharp, active, and engaged until his final days. 

Ted is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marjorie; children Robin Rocchi (Albino) of Harrison, NY, Theodore Henning (Denise) of New York City, and Christine Ferrante (Michael) of Portland, OR; five beloved grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his parents, and siblings Ruth, George, and Robert Henning.  A memorial service will be planned for later this spring.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Congregational Church of Manhasset, or the George Henning (1933) Memorial Scholarship Fund at MIT.