The Anthony Hendrie Family Fund

This summer our friend and colleague Anthony Hendrie told us that he had been diagnosed with Stage IV Melanoma. It was devastating news for his friends and family. Anthony epitomized the tireless colleague, and we aren’t referring only to his work ethic. He was tirelessly optimistic; he always greeted you with a smile and a “Hey, Mate.” He was tirelessly kind; the first to jump in and help when asked. He was tirelessly sincere; he earned deep respect and trust from those around him. He was tireless in all the ways that really matter, and took on his challenge in the same fashion, with a courage that we could only hope to summon under the same circumstances. In speaking with some of his closest colleagues last month, Anthony shared laughs, his desire to catch up in person over a glass of wine, and his thanks for all the calls, cards, emails, and texts that so many had sent along, adding, “Ah, Mate, you have no idea how much it all means to me.” The outpouring of support that came to Anthony was entirely expected given the kind of colleague and friend he was to the people whose lives intersected with his life.

In the last few months, Anthony’s grace belied the difficulties he faced. He passed away Thursday, November 10th, at the age of 53. Our most heartfelt condolences go to his wife Tricia, daughter Sienna (11), and son James (8), his parents, siblings, and all his family. We want to share a few more words about Anthony, in tribute to him, and above all we want to show his family the support they need and deserve. The last few months brought extensive medical bills so anything we can do to help the family address these and future challenges would truly be the most appropriate way to honor Anthony.

One of the best descriptions of Anthony would be “family man,” and how that family came to be was one of the great stories Anthony loved sharing. Anthony’s background jumped out right away. He was Australian, and proudly so. As many of his friends know, at a certain point years ago he decided he was ready to head back to his homeland. He booked a flight, made all arrangements, and went out to celebrate the close of his chapter here in the United States with friends just a few days before his planned departure. As fate would have it, he met the love of his life that very evening. They went on a date the next day. Needless to say, Anthony cancelled his flight. Marriage soon followed, along with two beautiful children, a continued career here in the U.S., and, eventually, American citizenship. Anthony could not have been prouder of his heritage as well as of his adopted home, and his family, both in Australia and in the US. He was full of wonderful stories about family and friends, the most important pieces of his life, and there was no greater pleasure than sitting down with Anthony and swapping these stories.

Anthony supported so many people and causes over the years, and would literally give the shirt off his back for family, friends and colleagues. Let’s raise a glass (on this occasion, it has to be Shiraz) to our mate Anthony, and continue our love and support for him and his family.

Thank you