John Ross Henneford

Jack Henneford, 88, quietly took his last breath on Sept. 1, 2021, at Peace Hospice, while listening to Handel’s Messiah. He was with family, and as the chorus sang, “Hallelujah, hallelujah,” the angels joyously welcomed him into the Heavenly realms. Dr. John Ross Henneford was born on June 4, 1933, in Fort Benton, MT. At the age of three, he and his family moved to Fairfield, MT where they lived above the family business. While he was in the seventh grade, Jack moved to Choteau, MT where he finished out high school. He excelled academically and in sports. He was selected to play football in the 1951 East West Shrine game. Jack received his Bachelor of Science degree from Montana State University and then went on to medical school at Northwestern University in Chicago, IL. During his residency, Jack met his wife, Nancy, in Chicago at Michael Reese Hospital. Jack was passionate about his work as a pathologist, and he was well respected by the medical community. He began work at the old Columbus Hospital in Great Falls and continued his entire career in Great Falls, retiring with Benefis Hospital. He continued to attend tumor board meetings, even after retirement. Jack had many interests including walking, hiking, biking, summer and winter camping, baking bread, astronomy, reading, and listening to classical music. He enjoyed spending time with his family, grandkids, and friends. Jack was quite resourceful. He sewed sleeping bags for himself and his sons, which they still use today. He patched his own clothes, darned his socks, and regularly wore his sons’ hand-me-ups. He walked or rode his bike to work almost every day, no matter the weather. On backpacking trips, the goal was to pack light to make it easier to stay out longer and cover more distance, often relying on catching fish to supplement the meals. Jack was an extraordinary man. He had great integrity. He did not seek attention or extravagance. He was humble, kind, and selfless. He always put others’ needs first and was very generous with time and resources. When Nancy faced certain health challenges, Jack was devoted to providing exceptional care, ensuring her comfort and wellness. Jack is survived by his loving wife, Nancy, of 63 years; sons, Ross (Maite), Craig (Lisa), Kurt (Erika); grandchildren, Johnny, Helena, Marina, Erik, Lauren, Britt, and Jake; great-grandchildren, Thomas, Andrew, Madelynn, and Mila; brother Gene (Jan); numerous cousins, nieces, a nephew, and close friends. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Hazel Henneford; in-laws, Vernon and Lucille Meier; brother-in-law, Lynn Meier; and granddaughter, Kristen Marie. As Jack embarks on his next journey, we can picture our Father lovingly declaring, “Well done my son, well done.” Per his request, no services will be held. If desired, memorial contributions can be made to the River’s Edge Trail, the Great Falls Public Library, or the charity of your choice. Condolences for the family may be shared online at www.oconnorfuneralhome.com.