Henry R. Sale

Henry “Hank” R. Sale, 91, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024, at OSF Saint Clare Medical Center in Princeton, Illinois, following a brief illness. Born on September 30, 1933, in Peru, Illinois, to Henry and Jean (Paton) Sale. Hank lived a full and rewarding life.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 29, 2024, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Grant-Johnson Funeral Home, 30 W. Mechanic Street, Princeton, IL. Funeral services will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at First Lutheran Church, 116 N. Pleasant Street, Princeton, IL, with Pastor William Shields, officiating. Burial will immediately follow at the City of Peru Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Hank was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose warmth and wisdom touched everyone who knew him. He married Janet M. Locke on June 4, 1955, and they shared 44 beautiful years of marriage until her passing in 1999. Together, they raised five children and built a home filled with love and laughter.

In 2001, Hank found love again, marrying Evelyn Sorensen, with whom he shared 24 wonderful years. Evelyn and Hank created new memories, spending winters in Arizona, traveling, and cherishing time with their blended family.

Hank earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Western Illinois University in 1955. He was a standout athlete, lettering all four years and earning all-conference honors in football, which garnered him an invitation to try out with the St. Louis Cardinals. He pursued advanced education, obtaining a Master’s Degree in Education (with an emphasis on biology) from the University of Illinois and an Advanced Certificate in Learning from Illinois State University.

Hank began his career in secondary education at Hall High School. Over the decades, he took on roles as teacher, coach, principal and superintendent in various Illinois school districts, including 14 years in Manlius. Before retiring, he served as Assistant Regional Superintendent of Schools in Princeton, capping a distinguished career dedicated to education. Even in retirement, Hank remained active, cultivating his passion for gardening and embracing a new role as a licensed real estate broker and rural mail carrier.

A lifelong learner, Hank achieved the distinction of Master Gardener through the University of Illinois Extension. His dedication to giving back extended beyond education. He volunteered with the Manlius Rescue Squad as an EMT, was active in his church, and served his community through local politics, including several years on the county board, many as chairman.

Hank found joy in life’s simple pleasures: golfing, gardening, barbecuing, traveling, playing bridge, and spending time with family. A music enthusiast, he amassed a remarkable collection of nearly 4,000 45 RPM records.

Hank is survived by his beloved wife, Evelyn Sale; his five children: Mary (Steve) Heward of Princeton, IL; Ann (John) Bradley of Penallt, Wales; John (Rhonda) Sale of Anna, TX; Tom Sale of St. Charles, MO; and, Dan (Dena) Sale of St. Charles, MO; and his stepchildren, Michael Sorensen of Hurley, WI; Terry Allen Sorensen of Poplar Grove, IL; Kathleen (Jerry) Schwebke of Cherry Valley, IL; and, Julie (Russell) Howard of Bayfield, CO.

He also leaves behind 17 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Hank was preceded in death by his parents, Henry E. Sale and Jean C. Sale; his brothers, Robert, Kenneth, and Donald Sale; his first wife, Janet M. Sale; and his stepson, Jeff Sorensen.

Hank Sale was a warm and loving patriarch whose legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be remembered for his sense of humor and unwavering commitment to family and community.