Bryan S. Henry
was born and raised in Spring Grove, PA, and graduated from the Spring Grove Area School District in the Class of 1976. He was the son of Gerald and Annabelle Henry and had a younger brother, Michael. Bryan spent his childhood immersed in sports, excelling in football, baseball, golf, and wrestling. Following his graduation, Bryan worked as a camp counselor at Camp Easter Seals, where he dedicated himself to assisting adults with disabilities. This role was a humbling and rewarding experience for Bryan, and he often fondly recalled the camping trips he shared with his family.
After his time at Camp Easter Seals, Bryan returned to school to become an electrician. He worked for B&R Electric for 21 years before joining I.B. Abel, where he continued his career for another 23 years. Bryan was passionate about his work and had great admiration for his coworkers and the field of electrical work. He took pride in his projects, often bringing his wife and daughter to his job sites to showcase his achievements.
In addition to his professional life, Bryan was an avid softball player, traveling across the country to compete in various tournaments. His outgoing nature and extensive network meant he frequently encountered friends and acquaintances wherever he went.
Bryan also had a lifelong love of motorcycles. He owned two Harley-Davidson motorcycles and cherished taking trips to scenic destinations such as Yellowstone National Park, the Smoky Mountains' "Tail of the Dragon," and Vermont. As a dedicated member of the White Rose Motorcycle Club in Jefferson, PA, Bryan was a familiar face at Gate 6 during the Hillclimbs.
Bryan's rich experiences and connections in both his professional and personal life left a lasting impact on everyone he met.
Bryan met the love of his life in 1979, Jackie. Jackie was his rock and best friend - they were married in 1982. They enjoyed taking long weekend trips on the motorcycle together, as they took many trips along the east coast and out west.
Bryan and Jackie were oftentimes found dancing on the dance floor at events, working as a team in the kitchen, and spending time with family and friends.
And their favorite past time was being the best grandparents to grandson, Bryce who was born in 2016.
Bryan was also the father to Karli Bowers- his only daughter and his pride and joy. Bryan and Karli shared their love of cooking and eating, gardening, and living life to the fullest. Bryan and Karli had a competition every year on who grew the first, best and biggest tomato. Bryan always wanted a son and he got that with his son-in-law, Daniel. Bryan always thought very highly of Daniel and finally wasn’t outnumbered. In 2016 – Bryan was over the moon excited for his first grandson Bryce. Bryce and “pappy” were always the best of buddies and often getting into trouble and has another grandson he sent to us from Heaven- Eli who was born in 2023.
In 2015, Bryan was diagnosed with bone cancer and received the devastating news that he had only a few years to live. Despite this, he didn't let it hinder his spirit or his zest for life. Bryan lived each day to the fullest, always straightforward and honest about his feelings. His outgoing nature and willingness to help others made him a beloved figure in the community, even becoming the face of the United Way campaign, where his image was prominently displayed along Route 30 on a billboard.
Bryan bravely fought cancer for nearly seven years, drawing on every ounce of strength to battle the disease. Even during the darkest days of treatment, he faced each day with a smile, grit, and determination to make the most of his time. He continued working until just ten months before his passing in April 2022, demonstrating his unwavering resilience and dedication. Although he is no longer with us, cancer never defeated him. Bryan's spirit and legacy live on through the Bryan S. Henry Foundation.
The Bryan S. Henry Foundation was established to give back to the community, support students in pursuing higher education, and assist families with medical expenses. Our mission is to honor Bryan's legacy and continue his way of life, embodying his commitment to helping others and living life to the fullest.