William "Bill" Hensler's Obituary
William “Bill” Hensler passed from this life on October 30, 2020. We fully believe he did so purposefully to avoid having to make an opinion in the pending Presidential election this year. William leaves behind a wife, daughter, and the chicken fried steak industry, for which he was an unofficial spokesman until dietary restrictions forced him to eat more balanced meals.
William was born on February 9, 1953 in San Francisco, California to Dr. and Mrs. Nestor Hensler. As a military family, he traveled with his parents and sister across the United States and Europe throughout his childhood years before settling in the Northwest Austin area. Bill was a proud graduate of Sidney Lanier High School in Austin, TX, and was an avid saxophone player in the marching band, although he could never play and march simultaneously.
Bill was a proud veteran, having served in the United States Air Force, with his own military travels stationing him in Thailand, Iceland, and Germany. He served for 10 years before pursuing a career in healthcare administration and information technology. However, before his honorable discharge, he was awarded many commendations and recognitions for his honorable acts in leadership and serving his country. Bill is also a proud graduate and alumnus of St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX, where he received his Bachelor’s degree and later his Master’s of Art degree.
He married Carolyn Carneal in July of 1979, and they remained constant companions for more than 40 years. Their life together revolved around their many travels to all continents on the globe. Together Bill and Carolyn followed their bucket list to the corners of the earth, and were content to enjoy a beer and people watch among the cities they visited.
He was an active participant in his daughter’s life, and thoroughly enjoyed sharing high school drill team memories, finally sharing the thrill of halftime performances in the father- daughter dances. He continued his loving presence in his daughter’s life, constantly doting on her and her family.
Bill was never much for sentiment or religiosity, but was more than willing to enjoy a beer or glass of Irish whiskey and debate the meaning of life and why dachshunds are the only dog breed of choice. He was a dutiful, decent, and generous man who loved Texas and his family.
William was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. and Mrs. Nestor Hensler. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn, their daughter, Kelly Friede, and their son in law, Matthew Friede. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Hensler, husband Rick Redd, and nephews Michael and Jason Redd. He is also survived by brother in law Charles Carneal, niece Lindsey Carneal and husband Dave Howard, nephew Matthew Carneal, wife Rachel Carneal and great niece Eleanor; David Carneal, wife Lisa Carneal, niece Page Carneal Wells, husband Blair Wells, and great niece Charlee and great nephew Ryder.
Given the circumstances surrounding the recent Coronavirus pandemic, a celebration of life service will be hosted at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The National Kidney Foundation or the American Heart Association. The family is overwhelmed and touched by the outpouring of love and generosity from friends and family, both near and far. Bill had suffered from multiple heart attacks and kidney disease, among other ailments, and we are at peace knowing that he is in Heaven, sitting in his favorite chair with a dachshund, watching the Texas Longhorns, and enjoying a chicken fried steak and an ice cold beer.
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