David Michael Hendrickson

In Loving Memory of Chief Warrant Officer Five (Retired) David Michael Hendrickson

On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, David Michael Hendrickson, 64, of Roseboro, NC, passed away peacefully at home to be with the Lord. He leaves behind a legacy defined by his unwavering dedication to his country, his profound love for Army Aviation, and above all, his deep devotion to his family.

Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, David’s call to service came early. In February 1980, while still a senior in high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve. He began his military journey as a Military Police Officer, but his eyes were soon drawn to the skies.

In 1984, David attended Army Rotary Wing Flight Training at Fort Rucker, Alabama, launching a remarkable aviation career that would span decades. He earned the prestigious title of Master Army Aviator, accumulating over 5,700 flight hours across both rotary and fixed-wing aircraft. David was a versatile and exceptionally skilled pilot, flying everything from OH-58s and UH-1V MEDEVAC helicopters to the formidable AH-64 Apache. His assignments took him across the United States and the globe from Florida, Texas, and North Carolina to Germany, and Korea. He served with distinction in numerous Aviation Battalions and Cavalry Squadrons.

A true warrior and leader, David, spent over seven years on overseas assignments. He answered the nation's call during Operations Desert Shield/Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. In 2002, his expertise was recognized at the international level when he was assigned to the U.S. Embassy in Cairo, Egypt, serving as an AH-64A Apache Instructor Pilot and Military Advisor to the Egyptian Air Force.

David's legacy in Army Aviation is perhaps best defined by his tireless commitment to the safety, training, and excellence of his fellow aviators. Serving as the FORSCOM Aviation Resource Management Survey (ARMS) Team Standardization Lead from 2013 to 2018, his impact was monumental. He personally surveyed 100% of FORSCOM, Army National Guard, and U.S. Army Reserve Aviation Units, ensuring the readiness of over 1,300 units. This immense responsibility was backed by his graduation from some of the military's most demanding schools, including the Aviation Master Gunner Course, the USAF Air-Ground Operations Course, the Aircraft Survivability Equipment and Electronic Warfare Officer Course, the AH-64 Instructor Pilot Course, and the Joint Firepower Course, among many others.

Even after his distinguished career in uniform concluded, David’s commitment to the mission never wavered. Transitioning to his post-Army career, he contracted with the U.S. Air Force to support operations in Iraq during Operation Inherent Resolve. From 2018 to 2022, David maintained a rigorous schedule, rotating in and out of Iraq every two months. Utilizing his extensive aviation expertise, he provided critical Fixed-Wing Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), along with additional classified support, during the final major conflicts to defeat ISIS.

CW5 Hendrickson was a highly decorated soldier whose bravery and excellence were widely recognized. Among his numerous awards and decorations are the Legion of Merit, the Air Medal with "V" device for valor, the Combat Action Badge, the Master Army Aviator Badge, and the prestigious Army Aviation Association of America Order of Saint Michael Bronze Award.

Beyond his uniform and his life in the skies, David’s greatest joy was rooted deeply in his family. He was a devoted and loving husband, stepfather, and "Papa." David cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. He loved teaching his granddaughters’ things like riding bikes, swimming, and playing Frisbee, all while sharing his wisdom about life. He happily played right along when they pretended to run a restaurant and cooked him imaginary food, he truly loved his girls. He was equally proud of his grandson, Conner. From the time Conner was a little boy playing in the dirt, David loved teaching him hands-on skills, whether it was riding a bike, using power tools, or working together on the farm.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth E. Hendrickson and Virginia Buckley Hendrickson. He is survived by his beloved wife, Patty Priester Hendrickson; his stepdaughter, Crystal Welsh and husband, Jacob Mazzei; his three cherished grandchildren, Conner Welsh, Julia Mazzei, and Madison Mazzei;  his two sisters, Susan Fahrion and Janice Roddy; and nephews, Michael Fahrion, Matt Roddy & family, and Brent Roddy & family.

David leaves behind a legacy of honor, courage, and selfless service. His profound impact on Army Aviation, the safety of his fellow soldiers, and the countless lives he touched throughout his distinguished career will never be forgotten. He was taken way too soon, but God has a plan for him that is much greater than our own.

Fly high Super Dave, until we meet again! We love and miss you.

Service Information: On May 16, 2026, at 1pm a celebration of life will be held at Holland's Chapel Pentecostal Church, 2069 Huntley School Rd, Roseboro, NC.

Following the service, a full military honors ceremony will take place at David and Patty’s home on the airstrip, 2201 Huntley School Road, Roseboro, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Holland's Chapel Pentecostal Church.

Services entrusted to Butler Funeral Home, 401 W. Roseboro Street, Roseboro, NC 28382.