A beautiful angel gained her wings and is now leading the choirs in heaven. On April 8, 2017, Dana Lynn Hendrickson passed away unexpectedly.

Dana was born on January 2, 1985 in Winfield, Illinois and grew up in Traverse City, Michigan. From the moment she entered this world, Dana spread joy, love, and laughter to all who knew her. She spent her childhood making many treasured memories on Spider Lake. Dana lived for swimming, boating, bonfires, and adventures with her sisters, cousins, and friends. As a teenager, Dana's love for music and drama blossomed. She participated in several productions at East Middle School and Traverse City Central High School. Dana's passion for music could be felt by the audience anytime she stepped on stage. With a microphone in hand she mesmerized us all with her beautiful voice. Dana graduated from T.C. Central High School in 2003 and continued her education at Spring Renewal Massage Therapy School in Holland, Michigan. She spent the last ten years in Downer Grove, Illinois where she developed several close friendships.

Dana's love for her family was immeasurable. Her greatest role in life was that of "Auntie Dana." She taught many important lessons to her nieces and nephew that included: light saber battles are best fought first thing in morning, dance parties are a must, visit the Drive-In every summer, sing Disney Songs at the top of your lungs, tie dye clothing is always in style, and most importantly - live every day with love in your heart and remember there is nothing more important than family.
Dana's strong trust in God helped carry her through many difficult days. She knew that no matter what, in good times and bad, he was by her side. Dana's faith was visible in the compassion she showed towards others, always helping those in need.

Other areas of her life that brought her great joy included her dog Sam, rooting for the Chicago Cubs, yoga, being outdoors, and time spent in Northern Michigan with her family. Dana was thrilled to have been able to celebrate the Cubs winning the World Series with her family this past fall.

Dana is survived by her mother Nancy (Steve) Dow, father Roger Hendrickson; her sisters Mandy (Adam) LaBarre, Lindsay (Anthony) Wolff, and Kelsey Hendrickson; nieces and nephew: Natalie, Molly, and Emilia LaBarre, Jolene and Cooper Wolff; grandparents: Melvin and Shirley Hendrickson; and many other aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents Norman and Gladys Brom, Reuben and Mary Hendrickson, and Uncle David Brom.

A visitation will be held on Friday, April 28, 2017 at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. A Celebration of Dana's Life will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the Advent Lutheran Church in Lake Ann. Pastor Chrysanne Timm will officiate services.

The greatest way you could honor Dana would be to live as she did and shine light into the lives others; especially those walking in darkness, for although they may not ask, they need it the most. Those wishing to make a donation in Dana's memory are encouraged to give to the Serenity House – Women's Recovery Program, Addison, Illinois c/o Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 6th Street, Traverse City, MI 49684.