Henry Allen “Hank” Quinnett

In Loving Memory of Hank Quinnett

Henry Allen "Hank" Quinnett, of Oak Grove, Oregon, passed away on October 18, 2023 at the age of 88. After a long and generally healthy life, he went on hospice after being diagnosed with terminal leukemia. He died peacefully at home a short time later, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Maggie and Tom Songer, daughter and son-in-law Jenny and Nathan Hampton, and granddaughters Samantha Songer and Sarah Hampton. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruth, parents Eugene and Marie Quinnett, brother and sister-in-law William and Donna Quinnett, and brother Dean Quinnett.

Hank, a man who spoke little but showed his love through action, left behind a lasting legacy of devotion to his family and service to his country.

His career in public service commenced at a young age when, upon the advice of his brother Dean, he joined the Army National Guard before graduating from high school. This decision eventually led him to work with anti-aircraft guns, Nike missiles, and Hercules nuclear missiles. His role in operating the threat radar, a pivotal component in missile defense, was a natural fit with his profound sense of responsibility.

For many years Hank worked a government day job at Camp Withycombe in Clackamas, OR, in the electronics repair shop, while also devoting one weekend a month and two weeks a year to his military duties. In 1990, his unit was called to active duty during Operation Desert Storm, where he looked out for younger soldiers and was deputized as a postal carrier, delivering much-needed letters from home to his fellow troops.

Hank retired from the National Guard as a Sergeant First Class after 42 years, the longest duration of service possible in the National Guard. His technical skills, dedication to excellence, and ability to remain calm in any situation earned the respect of all who worked with him.

Beyond his military service, Hank regularly contributed to various nonprofit organizations, including St. Joseph Indian School, Operation Smile, Shriners Hospitals, Democratic political organizations, veterans organizations, and many others. His generosity touched the lives of many.

When he was 35, Hank married his beloved wife Ruth. Their love was a shining example of a deep, enduring partnership. He was a reliable, loving father to their two daughters, Maggie and Jenny, making breakfast on weekend mornings, teaching them to ride their bikes, and providing a favorite lap to sit on. As they grew, he changed the oil in their cars, rescued them from the side of the road, and provided a safety net in times of trouble.

Hank's life was characterized by practicality and a strong work ethic. He was a talented gardener, carefully cultivating the roses and orchids his wife selected, and resurrecting many seemingly dead house plants. He was also a skilled handyman, known for his ability to fix almost anything from microwaves and radios to broken toys.

Hank's easygoing nature and steadfast reliability were legendary among his friends and family, and his endearing qualities included his dry sense of humor and his unusual way of marking the stages of his life by recalling the cars he owned at different times. He had a special connection with children, who were drawn to him like a magnet, and he swore so rarely that the few times he did are etched in the memories of his family. Although he didn't go to college, his love for history and science were apparent from the nonfiction books and magazines regularly found on his nightstand.

Hank’s legacy is one of love, service, and unwavering dedication to his family and the causes he cared about. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

memorial service

Memorial Service for Hank Quinnett

November 10, 2023

Southminster Presbyterian Church 12250 SW Denney Rd, Beaverton, OR 97008, USA

Reception to follow

memorial service

Military Honors Ceremony

November 19, 2023

15300 SE Minuteman Way., Clackamas, OR

Near the reflection pond, in front of the Armed Forces Readiness Center

Please dress appropriately for an outdoor ceremony.