Obituary of William R. Henning

Wayland / Springwater – William R. Henning, lovingly known as Bill, passed away peacefully at his cherished Springwater home on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on Valentine’s Day, 1944, in Buffalo, New York, to Kenneth and Connie (Johnson) Henning, Bill’s life was a testament to his love of family and farming. Raised in Buffalo, Bill graduated high school before attending Alfred State, where he earned an Associate’s Degree in 1967. It was there that he met Kathleen Schirer, the love of his life. Their romance blossomed, leading to their marriage on August 3, 1968—a union that spanned 56 years of unwavering devotion. Drafted in 1968, Bill served honorably as a medic and conscientious objector, reflecting his faith upbringing. After his return from Vietnam, he furthered his education with a Bachelor of Science from Utah State University in 1971 and a Master’s Degree in Animal Nutrition from Cornell University in 1974. Bill’s passion for farming ran deep, rooted in childhood visits to his Mennonite family’s farm in Canada. Those formative experiences, surrounded by the rhythms of rural life and sustainable practices, sparked a lifelong commitment to the land. As a dairy nutrition consultant and small farm advocate, he championed natural farming methods long before they gained widespread acclaim. Fifty years ago, Bill and Kathleen settled in Springwater, New York, where they built their own farm—a place Bill often called “heaven on earth.” They raised their children alongside sheep, cows, horses, pigs, cats, and dogs, instilling in them a love for the land and its creatures. In his final years, Bill found comfort in his dogs, Ladybug, Abe, and especially Abby, his constant companion, whose gentle presence brought him joy. Bill was predeceased by his parents, Kenneth and Connie Henning; his sister-in-law, Cheri Henning; and his brother-in-law, Werner Kronmuller. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 56 years, Kathleen Henning of Wayland; his daughters, Dawn (John) Longuil of Conesus and Heidi (Antone) Case of Wayland; his grandchildren, Sarah, Jacob, and Katie Longuil, and Aislinn, Elysia, Soleille, Mielo, and Antone Case; his brother, Bob Henning of Orchard Park; his sister, Sandra Kronmuller of Amherst; and many nieces and nephews who will forever hold him in their hearts, particularly Rob Henning who was like a son to Bill. His faithful dogs, Abby and Abe, also mourn his loss. His family will hold a celebration of life at a later date to honor his memory.