Tribute to Alan Henningsen

Alan D. Henningsen of Parkville, MD passed away July 29, 2021, from Lou Gehrig’s Disease. He was born in Greensburg, on December 24, 1959, the son of Alfred R. and Jean A. (Morgan) Henningsen. Alan was the Fishes Research Specialist at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, MD for the past 32 years.

Alan was a 1978 graduate of Greensburg High School and attended the University of Miami Florida, where he obtained a Master's degree in Marine Biology. He worked at the Rosenstiel School in the Florida Keys, Bahamas, Egypt, and Israel working in the Red Sea focusing on shark research under Dr. Samuel H. Gruber who was one of the leading authorities in shark research. He had great enthusiasm for shark and ray research as well as a desire to push through conservation measures. Alan was also a member of the American Elasmobranch Society for the IUCN’s shark and ray research group.

Alan’s true passion was his love for Jesus Christ. He volunteered for dozens of groups helping the less fortunate including being the board member of The Hope Movement. He and his family always carried food and water in their car to provide for the homeless. He also took the opportunity to speak and learn their stories. He and his family went on several mission trips to Central and South America spreading the word of Jesus Christ to underdeveloped countries. Although Lou Gehrig’s Disease may have stripped most of his organs he gave until the end by donating his skin to Living Legacy.

Survivors include his wife of 31-years Nanci (Saffer) Henningsen, Sons Ashby (AJ) Henningsen, Avery (Genise) Henningsen, and grandson Asaiah Alan Henningsen of Parkville, MD. He also leaves behind his brother Tracy H. (Niki) Henningsen, nephew Andrew D. Henningsen and niece Libby J. Henningsen of Greensburg. He was preceded in death by his parents Alfred R. and Jean A. Henningsen.

For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this tent we groan, longing to put on our heavenly dwelling, if indeed by putting it on we may not be found naked. For while we are still in this tent, we groan, being burdened—not that we would be unclothed, but that we would be further clothed, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee. So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. - 2 Corinthians 5:1-8

Throughout his time with ALS, Alan stood out as a man of unshakable faith, a true friend, a valuable mentor and role model, and an irreplaceable husband and father. He did not want us to mourn his passing, but rather to honor his life and give thanks for his faith.

We welcome you to join us in celebrating Alan’s life and impact at Rosedale Baptist at 9202 Philadelphia Road Baltimore, MD 21237 on August 14 at 11:45am.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make donations to any of the following causes and organizations:

• The Hope Movement
http://hopemovement.com

• The ALS Association
www.alsinfo.org

Alan was in DC/MD/VA chapter