Henry Benedict Lick

Henry B. Lick (“Hank”) of Milford, MI (Previously Grosse Ile, MI) passed away on January 18, 2024, at the age of 80. Hank was born to Herman and Wanda Lick in Cleveland, Ohio on June 27, 1943, and is the younger brother to Marie Schmiederer and older brother to Chuck Lick.

Hank met Betty Lick (nee Madarasz), his wife, love of his life, best friend and soulmate in 1959 when he was 16 and Betty was 14 in Maple Heights. Hank’s family moved to Maple Heights, OH when he was in the 8th grade. Betty and Hank lived less than a mile apart from one another. They were married on August 3, 1963, at St. Wenceslas Church and have been together ever since sharing life’s journey as partners right up to the day of his passing. Hank’s love for and devotion to Betty knew no boundaries.

Upon graduation from Maple Heights High School in 1961, Hank enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed at Selfridge Air Force Base in Michigan. Of all of his professional accomplishments and experiences, Hank was most proud of his service to his country. Over the next 25 years, Hank went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree, three master's degrees and a doctorate from the University of Detroit and Wayne State University. All of this was done while working full-time at Ford Motor and being a devoted husband and father. Hank completed a 32- year career at Ford Motor in 2000. He was recognized for his work in the field of occupational health and safety by becoming the President of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and receiving an appointment by the U.S. Secretary of Labor to the National Advisory Committee on Occupational Health and Safety.

Hank raised two sons with Betty, Dave and Jeff. He instilled strong values, work ethic and an appreciation for education in his sons. Over the last 59 years, Hank served as a consistent foundation in his sons’ lives always being there when they needed him. Hank relished the role of Grandpa to his seven grandchildren, Allison, Andrew, Aidan, Kylie, Georgie, Roark and Armelle. He never lacked for a smile and a story any time he saw or spoke to them.

Hank was a man of faith and devout catholic. He and Betty attended mass and volunteered regularly at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Grosse Ile over the last 30 years.

Hank leaves behind his wife of more than 60 years, Betty, his sister Marie, his brother Chuck, his two sons, Dave and Jeff, his daughter in-laws, Colleen and Jennifer and his grandchildren, Allison, Andrew, Aidan, Kylie, Georgie, Roark and Armelle. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Dorothy.