Melvin Eugene “Gene” Hensley

Melvin Eugene "Gene" Hensley, peacefully passed away on February 23, 2021, at his home in Manhattan, Kansas. Gene was born February 3, 1933, in Gridley, Coffey County, Kansas, to Harry and Dolly (Wright) Hensley.

Gene attended schools in LeRoy, Kansas, graduating in 1952. He met his wife-to-be, Sonia Horalek, in 1953, and they married on June 5, 1955, in LeRoy, KS. In 1959, they moved to St. Mary's, KS, where Gene worked at his father-in-law's lumber yard, St. Mary's Lumber Company. Gene and Sonia sold insurance for many years and relocated to Manhattan KS in September 1969. From 1971 to 1982, Gene worked for McCullough Construction, then starting working for Gary Haycock & Manhattan Millwork in 1982. In May 1989, Gene started Gene Hensley Millwork in Manhattan, which he operated until his retirement. Gene was a true craftsman and was well-known for his skills in making cabinetry and furniture. Among his many projects, he built the judges' desks during the Riley County Courthouse renovations.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings Harry "June" Hensley and Shirley Jones, and his son Randall "Randy" Eugene Hensley. His wife of 66 years, Sonia, survives of the home. Also surviving are his daughters, Kimberly Riley (Kevin) of Manhattan, KS, Tonya Hensley of Alma, KS, and Loretta Hensley of Manhattan, KS; daughter-in-law Robin Hensley of Exeter, MO; grandchildren Logan Berges (Melissa) of Topeka, KS, Aimee Berges of Manhattan, KS, Cristy Turner (Craig) of Burlington, KS, Cody Flippin (Stacie) of Manhattan, KS, Kellie Cruz (Armando) of Topeka, KS; and five great-grandchildren Keegan Berges, Ella Berges, Quinn Cruz, Rey Cruz and Carson Flippin.

Gene enjoyed fishing, camping and spending time with his kids, grandkids and great grandkids. He loved to teach the grandkids life lessons and skills. He could fix almost anything. Nothing made him happier than having his family around him.

Cremation is planned with private family services. Condolences may be sent to the family home at 4601 Freeman Road, Manhattan, KS 66503. Memorial contributions may be sent in Gene's honor to Good Shepherd Homecare & Hospice, 3801 Vanesta Drive, Manhattan, KS 66503.