Elroy "E.J." Fred Hendrickson

Elroy "E.J." Fred Hendrickson, born on March 14, 1996, in Wausau, Wisconsin, passed away on January 2, 2025, as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident. E.J was a man whose presence illuminated the lives of all who knew him, and he will be profoundly missed.

Growing up, E.J.’s favorite pastimes involved annual trips to the Wisconsin Dells, pellet gun wars in the woods at home, as well as go-kart and dirt bike tracks as home. His love for animals was evident in raising chickens and beefers. E.J. especially loved his dog, Spike.

 E.J. was a dedicated maintenance technician at American Wood Fibers, where he showed a genuine love for working with his hands. This passion extended beyond his professional life into all aspects of his daily routines. He found joy in every nut and bolt, every engine he repaired, and every project he embarked upon, whether it was tinkering with cars and trucks or engaging in simple repairs around the house. His hands were never still, perpetually busy with endeavors that reflected his energetic spirit.

E.J. cherished the great outdoors—hunting and fishing were his meditative retreats, where he found solace surrounded by nature. He often spoke fondly of the adventures he had boating and swimming, particularly those precious moments shared with his wife, Taylor, and their children, Rylyn and Sawyer. These memories will forever resonate in the hearts of those who experienced them, vivid reminders of family and adventure intertwined.

Though E.J. enjoyed the comfort of his home, where movie nights with Taylor were a cherished staple, he made sure not to let the couch become a permanent resting place for his vibrant spirit. He balanced his nurturing homebody nature with an active engagement in life and the love he had for his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Taylor; their beautiful children, Rylyn and Sawyer, all of Antigo; and his devoted parents, Fred and Pamela Hendrickson, Wausau. He is further survived by nieces Serenity and Liana Chaignot. His family meant the world to him, and the bond they shared will remain unbreakable, serving as a testament to the love he infused into every relationship. He is preceded in death by his brother, Matthew Chaignot.

The family would like to thank the Aspirus Wausau Hospital Surgical ICU staff for all the care, dignity, and compassion shown to E.J.

Private services are being held at Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston.

E.J.’s legacy will continue to shine brightly in the gift of life given to several others by being an organ donor. That legacy remains guiding us through our days with the same spirit that defined him.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the Hendrickson family. Condolences may be shared at www.ascendweston.org.