Vera L. Henschen

Vera L. Henschen, age 92, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, at Cedarhurst Senior Living in Highland, IL, with her family by her side.

She was born on October 1, 1933, the daughter of Lawrence and Martha (Burgnone) Olive. She graduated from Edwardsville High School in 1951. Vera married LaVerne Henschen on June 5, 1955, at Salem United Church of Christ in Alhambra. They spent their short-married life together on their farm in Alhambra.

Vera’s kindness and love for her family will live on in the memories of many. From her days as a young woman and mother, she displayed an indescribable level of strength and compassion that she carried with her throughout her life.

She worked for Alhambra Elevator and as a bookkeeper and bus driver for Ramsey Bus Service. After 21 years of service, she retired in 1994 from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville Payroll Department. Vera was a member of Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland, and until recently, she was active in American Legion Auxiliary Post 1147, and 8 and 40 Salon #53. She enjoyed spending time with her family, cross-stitching, attending weekly worship services, reading, and watching old TV shows.

Vera was preceded in death by her husband, LaVerne, in October 1969; son, Neal, in August 2020; Lawrence and Martha Olive (parents), Edward and Mamie Henschen (father and mother-in law), and three brothers, Roy, Carl, and Harry Olive.

She is survived by her three daughters, Cathy (Carolyn Leach) Henschen of Swansea, Brenda (Gary) Heim of Highland, Faye (Patrick Jakel) Henschen of Highland, and one son, Mark Henschen, of Hamel; grandchildren Jason (Brandi) Zappia and Jared (Krissi) Zappia, both of Highland, and Lauren (fiancé John Kernan) Heim of Chicago; step-grandchild Brandon Heim of Jacksonville; three great grandchildren, Alli, Bella, and Ryder Zappia; step-great grandchild Lexus Heim; and special friend Earl Gilomen.

Memorial donations may be made to Highland Area Christian Service Ministry (Food Pantry) or Hoyleton Youth & Family Services, Hoyleton, Illinois.

Visitation: Monday, April 27, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Evangelical United Church of Christ, Highland, IL

Funeral: Monday, April 27, 2026, 12:00 pm, at Evangelical United Church of Christ, Highland, IL

Burial: Salem Cemetery in Alhambra, IL

Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL