Robert Hendrickson
New Chapel Organ
Music to fill the soul and uplift the spirit of chapel visitors
Having a sick loved one or experiencing their loss in the hospital can be physically and emotionally draining. Kay Hendrickson knows firsthand how the chapel at St. Mary Medical Center can be a place of solace and reflection on such occasions.
Kay and Robert Hendrickson were happily married for fifty-three years. They were proud of their family and enjoyed spending time with their children, Bruce and his wife, Nancy; Kimberlea and her husband, Thomas; as well as their three wonderful grandchildren Chelsea, Ryan and Conor. Robert spent many years involved with the Free and Accepted Masons, and the International Union of Operating Engineers. He was an avid pond and koi fish enthusiast, showcasing his calming, serene hobby in their home’s backyard for all to enjoy.
Robert’s health took a turn and he found himself fighting a courageous battle with cancer. His illness required frequent trips to the hospital as well as the need for hospice care. On October 26, 2011, he passed away at St. Mary Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. Though she knew he was free from the pain and suffering his illness had caused, Kay felt a sudden and significant absence in her spirit immediately after his passing.
She made her way to the chapel for a quiet moment alone to pray. Gazing at the stained glass and religious imagery, Kay began to feel a calm not unlike staring into one of her husband’s ponds. Kay felt as if he wasn’t gone at all; she felt Robert all around her in the chapel. Kay spoke with St. Mary Chaplain, Fr. Raju Pilla, and Spiritual Care Administrator, Richard Brochu, to share how the soothing ambience of the chapel aided her during this difficult time. She was moved by the exceptional care the St. Mary staff provided to her husband and wished to do something to honor his memory. Fr. Raju asked Kay if there was any way to better honor Robert than by helping others facing circumstances similar to her own. She agreed but was unsure how she could accomplish such a thing. It was then that her attention was drawn to the silence in the chapel. There was no music; the organ was broken.
Kay realized the peace she felt in the chapel could be magnified and shared with many others through the addition of spiritually uplifting music. She decided that as a tribute to Robert, she would replace the chapel’s organ. With Kay’s financial contribution, the assistance of Spiritual Care and Foundation staff, and two volunteer organists, a new instrument was selected and purchased.
Based on features designed to enhance the chapel experience, a brand new Rodgers Organ Model 558 is now in place at St. Mary. This model allows music to be recorded and played back during masses and throughout the day when no organist is available to play in person. Father Raju blessed both Kay and the instrument upon its installation. A plaque which reads: “In loving memory of Robert Hendrickson” was permanently attached.
Kay is happy to have been able to make a contribution through which her husband will be remembered and many St. Mary patients and visitors can find joy. A memorial Mass was said for Robert on October 26th and included beautiful music thanks to Kay’s most generous memorial contribution.