Response from: Egils (Check me out!)

The loss of Ken Hendricks is a big tragedy. I got to know Ken Hendricks through my work with the Rockford Area Ventures developing the Essex building (a former munitions factory) that he had recently purchased. Many of us involved with the project were excited about repurposing the facility as a global center for innovation. Ken was an inspirational character—little ego, optimistic, entrepreneurial and a man of great accomplishments. I remember a number of meetings with him revolving around the future of the Rockford economy—K-12 education, leadership, business incubators, emerging markets, green technology, wind turbines and broadband access among others. His insights were respected and he was always encouraging those around him to get on with the job. He was a visionary and, more significant, an actionary. He will certainly be missed. Egils Milbergs
Center for Accelerating Innovation
www.innovate.typepad.com

Response from: Shawn (Check me out!)

Thanks Egils.
I must admit I never knew much about Ken Hendricks' accomplishments until reading more about him following announcement of his death and was only vaguely aware of his company not being involved in the building trade. I have to say what I read in my research impressed me. Thanks for sharing these important memories.