Brent Hentzen

Brent Lee Hentzen passed away August 4, 2019 surrounded by his loving wife and family at his home in Independence, Kansas after a valiant battle with cancer.

He was born January 4, 1967 to the late Billy Joe Hentzen and Darlene (Jeffery) Hentzen in Parsons, Kansas. He attended Parsons schools and lived his entire life in Parsons. On July 6, 1991 he married his soulmate and as he often said, “The Love of My Life”, Kari Carter. He never missed an opportunity to proclaim his love for Kari as was evident by the numerous social media postings, reminding us all he was “A Lucky Man. Brent had a love for life. Most of all he loved his kids, Andrew, Emma, and Ellie. He was the best dad ever. He took fatherhood seriously and loved being with his kids. He enjoyed playing with them, telling them stories, and just being a dad. Brent was quite the story teller. When he started a story, you had better make yourself comfortable. It was going to take a while. He was a magnificent cook. He invited all that entered his door to have a seat at his table. He loved creating new dishes. The entire family and many friends have enjoyed his feasts. Brent loved music and collected and played guitars. He wanted everyone to share in his love of music and passed that loved on to his son, Andrew. By trade, Brent was a heavy machine technician. He was also and excellent small engine mechanic. He was good at his job and enjoyed it until his retirement in July 2018. Brent and Kari lived in many places. They loved their time in Branson, MO and most recently, in Brandon, MS. They looked on these moves as new adventures together. He lived his life with joy and anticipation for each new day. He took his grim cancer diagnosis in much the same way. He fought an amazing battle and conducted himself with the utmost dignity. He spent much of his time putting everyone else at ease with his prognosis.

Brent is survived by his wife Kari of Independence, son, Andrew Hentzen of Branson, Mo, daughters Emma (Cory) Chapman and Ellie Hentzen of Independence, mother Darlene Hentzen of Independence and brother Brad Hentzen of Owasso, Ok.

He was preceded in death by his father Billy Joe Hentzen and his sister Debbie Hentzen Watkins.

Brent was a genuine giver and has personally requested donations to the Brent Hentzen Memorial fund in lieu of flowers. He developed a special bond with his cousin, Sean Kulzer who is fighting his personal battle against Alexander Disease (a terminal neurodegenerative disorder). A potential treatment is nearing reality and the funds will be solely used to facilitate Sean in receiving his treatment. Brent’s wish is for something good to come from his valiant fight against cancer. Donations to the Brent Hentzen Memorial fund and may be left at the Community National Bank and Trust in Independence or the Webb & Rodrick Funeral Home. The family will greet friends at Webb and Rodrick Chapel on Friday, August 9th at 1:00 PM with a celebration of life service following at 2:00 PM. Online condolence can be left to the family by visiting www.webbrodrickfuneralhome.com.