John was born on November 24, 1964, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Ronald and Darlene Henningsen. He was the youngest of four boys, growing up alongside his brothers Edward (Ed), Michael (Mike), and James (Jim). He graduated from Fremont High School in 1983 and spent most of his life in the Fremont area, where he made countless friendships and memories. John drove a forklift for Americold Logistics in Fremont for the last 15+ years, where he referred to himself as a ''Freezer Rat.''
John was the kind of person who could make almost anyone smile. He had a lifelong passion for old cars, especially Subaru Brats and Fords, and loved going to car shows and cruising the square in Fremont. Music was always a big part of his life, and Pink Floyd was one of his favorite bands, along with many classic rock artists from that era. John always had music playing in his car and enjoyed nothing more than driving, listening to his favorite songs, and spending time with friends and family.
Whether he was sitting at the Corner Bar or the Silver Dollar Lounge, places he jokingly called his ''second home'' or ''therapy'' or talking about cars and music with friends, John always found comfort in the people around him. John enjoyed watching NASCAR, and while he was a Husker fan, he also enjoyed cheering on the Hawkeyes just to get his friends and family riled up. He enjoyed his favorite Captain and Pepsi and was truly a kid at heart. He loved building model cars, collecting Hot Wheels, and holding onto the simple joys in life.
One of the greatest joys of John's life came in 2024 when he found out he was going to be a grandpa. He could hardly wait for Chase to arrive and was especially excited to have a grandson he could someday teach about cars. Becoming Grandpa to Chase was one of the proudest moments of his life. John never missed a chance to show off pictures of him to friends, coworkers, or anyone willing to look. Spending time with Chase, building toys together, and watching him grow brought John so much happiness. John being silly could always bring a smile to Chase's face.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Darlene Henningsen, and his brother, Michael Henningsen.
John is survived by his children, Cory (Julie) Henningsen of Elkhorn, NE, and Ashley Henningsen of Lake Ozark, MO; his beloved grandson, Chase Henningsen of Elkhorn, NE; his brothers, Ed (Rose) of Alexandria, SD, and Jim (Jan) of Rolla, MO; his sister-in-law, Patty, of Phoenix, AZ; special friend Suzi of Fremont, NE; and many friends and loved ones who will miss his humor, stories, and big heart.
John will be remembered for his love of family and friends, his passion for cars and music, and the way he could always make people feel welcome just by being himself. John's laughter, stories, and kind heart will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him. Though he may be gone, the memories, music, and laughter he shared will live on with those who loved him.
Visitation will be held June 11, 2026, at the Ludvigsen Mortuary Fremont Chapel from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The memorial service will be June 12 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ludvigsen Mortuary Chapel in Fremont. A luncheon will follow at Silver Dollar Lounge in Fremont (1809 N. Bell St.).
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(9)
Yolanda Heldt Gilmore
Omaha, NE Thursday, June 11, 2026 I'm so sorry to hear John passed away. I still remember his smile everytime he came into Travel Faire. Thoughts and prayers to the family and friends.Cory Henningsen
Elkhorn, NE Tuesday, June 2, 2026 I miss you so much dad! I keep wanting to send memes or funny videos. Or send pics of Chase! The older I got the closer we got you were like my best friend. Definitely my drinking buddy! I’m going to do my best to make you proud. Best father a guy could ask for. You were always there when I needed you. I love and miss you so much 🥺Angie walter
Lebanon, MO Monday, June 1, 2026 U will be missed that’s for sure Nettie is heartbroken and others as well thank u for always putting up with us always nothing but kind rest easy love AngieTraci Miller Bolich
Genoa, NE Sunday, May 31, 2026 Rest in peace! You touched so many lives with your kindness and your smile.April L Timme
Fremont, NE Wednesday, May 27, 2026 He was an awesome companion ❤️. The past 2rs have passed so quickly.Condolences.
Prayers.
Lisa Stork
Fremont, NE Wednesday, May 27, 2026 John, I was so shocked to hear of your passing. Just won't be the same without you. You were a shining star on so many of our lives. I'm sure we will feel your energy and hopefully hear your laughter a time or two when we are all together. Fly high my friend, you will be missed! 😔. Thoughts & prayers for your family at this time. Love you!JoAnn A Morgan
Non Hispanic or Latino, NE Wednesday, May 27, 2026What a fine neighbor John has been for many years. Our conversations over the back yard fence were always happy. Our neighborly friendship was fun and always friendly. His yard was always kept most tidy...to me a sign of a caring man. Thank you, John, and grant you eternal rest in Heaven.
P.S. my doggies, Lexi & Mia loved you too. I am not so sure that he didn't slip them something from his grilling.
Mary Pat Henningsen Sacco
Bellevue, NE Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Special Nephew, will bring memories that last a lifetime!Love you,
Liz & Renee
Fremont, NE Tuesday, May 26, 2026 Things will not be the same! ~We all miss you already - miss your friendship, your goofy smile, your jokes, your updates on that grandson that you are so proud of, and just you being you. Love you Johnny Boy!