Henry R. Armstrong

Henry Russell “Hank” Armstrong passed away November 7, 2017 at his home in Paola, Kansas. Hank was born January 21, 1945 at Burson Nursing in Paola to Henry Walker and Catherine Carruthers Armstrong, the third of four children. He attended school in Paola, graduating with the PHS class of 1963. He always said it was the best class ever! Following graduation from high school, he went to work as a mechanic for Taylor Forge Engineered Systems in Paola. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1965 and served with the Helicopter Combat Squadron as a parachute rigger until he was honorably discharged in 1969. Hank and Patricia “Patty” Fanning were married February 24, 1973 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Paola. Although they never had children of their own, he was a kind, loving, and supportive uncle to his nieces and nephews. Hank enjoyed sports and loyally attended Paola basketball, baseball and football games. He also coached youth baseball and basketball. An avid fan of KU men’s basketball, he seldom missed a televised game and the opportunity to attend games at Allen Fieldhouse was one of his fondest memories. The Jayhawks brought him great joy. Hank was a member of the Boilermakers Union and of the American Legion Post 156. He enjoyed gardening, and was very passionate toward animals. Over the years, he and Patty adopted many animals who “wandered” into their home. Hank was predeceased by his parents, mother-in-law and father-in-law Frances and Elmer Fanning, sister-in-law Barb Gunn, and nephew Kevin Armstrong. He is survived by his wife Patty of the home, sister Betty Ann Armstrong of Paola, brother Bill (Shannon) of Louisburg, brother Don (Paula) of Paola, brothers-in-law John (Debbie) Fanning, and Tom Fanning, both of Paola, many nieces and nephews, dog Lizzie and cat Lillie. Memorial contributions may be made to the Miami County Cancer Foundation or to the Humane Society. Visitation will be 10 – 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 15, 2017 at Dengel & Son Mortuary, 305 N. Pearl St., Paola, KS. Graveside service will be 11:30 a.m. following the visitation at Holy Cross Cemetery. To leave a special message for the family online, please visit www.DengelMortuary.com. 913-294-2372. Family and friends are encouraged to post their condolences and memories on Henry's Tribute Wall at www.dengelmortuary.com