Richard L. Hendricks

Richard L. Hendricks, 87, of Telford, formerly a long-time resident of Perkasie, passed away on Wednesday, January 25, 2012, at Grand View Hospital, West Rockhill Township. He was the beloved husband of the late Joyce Sandra (Rush) Hendricks, who died in 1998.

Born in Lansdale, he was the son of the late William Leon and Gertrude (Fretz) Hendricks.

Dick was a 1942 graduate of Sell-Perk High School.

A pioneer in the local banking industry, Mr. Hendricks began his long, distinguished career by working for the U.S. Gauge and the Sellersville Electric Company, both of Sellersville. In 1948, he joined Sellersville Savings and Loan Association.

By the early 1950’s, Mr. Hendricks was employed by First Federal Savings and Loan Association, of Perkasie, which later became First Savings Bank of Perkasie. From 1960-1987, he held the position of president, remaining on the Board until 1994.

During his tenure, Mr. Hendricks directed the implementation of the first reverse mortgage in the United States. Under his guidance, First Savings became a leader in administrating the first Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) loans. Dick worked with NCR to direct the design and installation of modern bank computers, again putting First Savings in the forefront of community banks.

While expanding the bank from two locations to ten, he also created a community foundation within First Savings for bank-sponsored donations. He was President Emeritus at First Savings until his death.

Mr. Hendricks proudly served on the Federal Home Loan Bank Board and was a member of the Franklin Institute Advisory Board, of Philadelphia.

Mr. Hendricks’ community involvement was extensive. A member of the Pennridge School Board in the 1960’s, he served as a liaison on the Vocational-Technical Committee.

Dick was an Old Monarch and past treasurer of the Perkasie Lions, where he was a member for over 40 years. He was also a member of the Pennridge Chamber of Commerce.

A past president and coach of the Pennridge Little League, he also coached in the Community League. In addition, Mr. Hendricks served at both the local and county level with the Sea Scouts and the Boy Scouts of America.

Active in community re-development efforts, he was instrumental in the original restoration of what is now known as the Olde Town section of Perkasie.

A lifelong member of St. Andrew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Perkasie, Mr. Hendricks had served as church treasurer, taught Sunday school and served on Church Council. He was chairman of the Finance Committee and directed two capital fund drives. In 1957, he was instrumental in purchasing the land and building the present church.

Dick enjoyed fishing, golf and pinochle. A sports enthusiast, he loved the Phillies and all sporting events. He especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s various activities.

Richard was committed to his family, church, bank, and community. His exemplary life and career are a testament to his beliefs.

Mr. Hendricks is survived by his three children: Robin L. Massie of Quakertown; Michael L. Hendricks and wife Laura, of State College; Rachel L. Tyson and husband Glen, of Sellersville; and seven grandchildren: Giddeon, Nicholas, Elizabeth, Stephen, Sarah, Nicole and Krista.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a sister, Nancy Spanninger.

His funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, January 30, 2012, at St. Andrew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Dill Avenue and Chestnut Street, Perkasie, PA 18944. Family and friends may call Sunday afternoon, January 29, at the church, from 3:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M., or on Monday morning, at church, from 9:30 A.M. until time of service.

Interment will be in St. Andrew’s Union Cemetery, Perkasie.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Memorial Fund of St. Andrew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, PO Box 257, Perkasie, PA 18944.