Kenneth V. Henrici, age 77, of North Haven, unexpectedly passed away on November 4, 2023, at Yale-New Haven Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Known as Ken or Kenny to his many friends and family, he was born in New Haven and raised in Hamden. Ken was a proud graduate of Hamden High School and The University of Connecticut, where he was a dedicated member of the men's varsity hockey team.
Ken served his country during the Vietnam War with honor as a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Following his military service, he embarked on a lifelong career in public service in education. Starting as a teacher in his hometown of Hamden, Ken's professional journey was marked by dedication and an unwavering commitment to the field of education. His career was a testament to his passion for learning and his desire to provide students with the best opportunities for growth and development. He rapidly ascended through the educational ranks, with notable roles including serving as an assistant principal in Hamden and Clinton, as the principal at West Haven High School, as an assistant superintendent in Bridgeport, as the superintendent in Wallingford, and finally devoting the last 16 years of his career as the superintendent to Regional School District 11, where he served the Town of Chaplin.
Ken's dedication to education extended beyond the administrative realm. He held a deep belief in the power of public education and consistently sought ways to offer students the most enriching educational experiences available. He firmly believed in providing students with opportunities to challenge themselves, often expressing the view that everyone had the right to fail. Ken had a particular fondness for engaging with the student body whenever the occasion arose.
Outside of his professional responsibilities, Ken was a prominent figure in his community. His role as President of the Yale Youth Hockey Association allowed him to spearhead numerous community initiatives, one of which he held in high regard: promoting and sharing the game of hockey with individuals from all walks of life. Furthermore, Ken served as the board chair of the CIAC Hockey Committee, where he tirelessly advocated for creating the best and most competitive experiences for student athletes.
Beyond his career and community involvement, Ken was a man of simple pleasures. Many will remember him playing hockey on the local frozen ponds, casting lines into the Mill River while enjoying the serenity of fishing, and sharing stories infused with his exceptional sense of humor. He was known for his honesty, strong work ethic, and an innate kindness that he extended to everyone he met.
Ken's legacy is one of dedication, service, and love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will continue to live on in our hearts.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Meryl, and his loving sons, Douglas Henrici and his wife Kyna and their three children Brendan, Ryan, and Dylan, and Michael Henrici and his wife Shannon. He is also survived by his brother, Paul Henrici and his wife Carol, and his sister Phyllis Henrici. Ken was predeceased by his parents, John and Elaine Henrici, as well as his siblings, Jack Henrici, Elaine Henrici, and Craig Henrici.
Friends are invited to visit with Ken's family on Thursday, November 9th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. in BEECHER & BENNETT FUNERAL HOME, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden. His Funeral Service will be held on Friday, November 10th at 10:00 a.m. in Mt. Carmel Congregational Church, 3284 Whitney Ave., Hamden. Interment will follow in Centerville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to assist in the fight against pancreatic cancer in honor of Ken's late brother Craig. Please give online to PanCan-Team Henrici at http://support.pancan.org/goto/teamhenrici .