In Memory

Henry A. Kingswell Jr.

Henry A. Kingswell Jr.


Henry A. Kingswell Jr.
 
 

Henry A. Kingswell Jr.

 

Died: Thursday, February 02, 2012
Age: 70

 

 

Grosse Pointe Farms resident Henry A. Kingswell Jr., 70, died Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012, at St. John Hospital and Medical Center in Detroit.

He was born Dec. 5, 1941, in Detroit to Henry A. Kingswell Sr. and Phyllis R. Hecker and graduated from Grosse Pointe High School. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he attended Wayne State University and the University of the Americas in Mexico City, Mexico.

Mr. Kingswell had a long career in journalism beginning in college when he served as editor of The South End, WSU’s student newspaper and then the University of Americas Newspaper. In 1975 he authored Metro Detroit Guide. He also worked as a journalist for the Detroit Free Press.

Mr. Kingswell loved to travel and spent much of his time in Mexico. He loved art, whether written or visual, and took tens of thousands of photographs. He created hundreds of collages, each centered on a specific theme, built from photographs, newspaper and magazine clippings and an unconventional collection of associated items. His collages were shown in multiple art shows.

His family said he was an avid storyteller with a quick wit and encyclopedia-like knowledge, but never let facts get in the way of a good story. His creativity was fueled by the esoteric and the eclectic. Despite a disabling stroke in 1987, he maintained his independent spirit and love of life.

He adored going to Torch Lake, spending his summers there since he was a child. He loved living near The Hill, and would walk up and down Kercheval almost daily in search of a good cup of coffee, a newspaper and someone with whom to sit and chat.

Mr. Kingswell is survived by his son, Brett (Kesha) and grandchildren, Mackenzie and Carter.

A memorial service was held Feb. 6 at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial. Interment was in Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly.

Donations may be made to Services for Older Citizens, 159 Kercheval, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI, 48236 or at socservices.org/donate.







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