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Obituary of Hank Hermsen
Hermsen: Henry "Hank" -
It is with great sadness that our family must announce that Hank Hermsen passed away at the Chatham-Kent Hospice on February 22, 2026 at the age of 71.
Born in Chatham, Hank was the son of John and Wilhelmina (née van Wessel) Hermsen.
Beloved husband of 50 years to Joy (July, 2024).
Cherished father to his 3 children Tracey (Chris), John (Stephanie) and Paul (Jana).
Beloved grandfather to 7 grandchildren Austin, Ethan, Liam, Katie, Nicole, Emily, Timothy and Matthew (predeceased).
Dear brother to Francis and his wife Debbie Hermsen of Wallaceburg and Gary and his wife Nancy Hermsen of Blenheim. Hank will be missed by many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.
Hank and Joy shared a deep love of crafts and spent countless hours volunteering together at local retirement and nursing homes, generously sharing their talents with residents.
Hank especially treasured time spent with his grandchildren, whether at home or cheering them on at their many sporting events. A skilled fruit and vegetable farmer, he took pride in grafting and crop combinations-knowledge passed down from his parents while growing up on the family farm in Cedar Springs.
Some of the family’s most cherished memories were made across four generations-chopping wood at local woodlots, clearing fallen trees, and sharing conversation in the warmth of the garage.
The family would like to send their sincere thanks to the staff at the Chatham-Kent Hospice for the care that he received.
Family and friends are invited to visitation at McKinlay Funeral Home, 76 Main Street East, Ridgetown, on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.
A private family interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Hank can be made on his behalf to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East, Ridgetown
519-674-3141
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Ridgetown: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-397
Blenheim: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-41
Chatham: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-174
Nathan McKinlay is in charge of day-to-day operations in Chatham.
Jeff Mardling is in charge of day-to-day operations in Blenheim & Ridgetown.
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