With a heavy heart, we share the peaceful passing of an incredible man, Chief Henry “Hank” Davenport, June 22, 1943 – February 6, 2024. Hank leaves behind a tremendous legacy and a loving family, especially his beloved wife of 37 years, Jan.
Hank was born and raised in Eldon, Missouri. As a young man, Hank became a professional baker, training at the Forum Cafeteria in Kansas City and eventually transferring to St. Louis. His baking skills paid off when he enlisted in the army during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Germany, where he became the head baker for the Colonels and Generals.
Upon his return to the States, he attended and graduated from the Police Academy. Chief Robert Cole hired him as an officer for the City of Olivette, where he served for 38 years. During Hank’s years with the department, he moved through the ranks until he was promoted to Chief of Police. He held that position for 13 years, retiring in 2006. During a portion of his time as Chief, he also held the positions of Fire Chief and City Manager. He graduated with a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Webster University and was a member of the 166th Session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Chief Hank served his time in Olivette with kindness, respect, dignity, and selflessness. He was well-loved and respected by citizens, especially the young people and their families whom he helped in many ways. To say Chief Hank left behind a huge legacy of love and respect is an understatement.
Upon Hank’s retirement, he enjoyed traveling, gardening, baking, playing golf, “Lake Time,” sunsets, and long walks with his beloved dogs. Hank loved family time and creating countless memories with his grandchildren, who knew him as Pepe. His “Award Winning” apple pies were enjoyed at many celebrations with family and friends.
Hank is also survived by his sons, Brian Davenport (Jennifer), Adam Roberts (Beth), and Todd Roberts (Julie); his eight grandchildren: Hannah, Isabel, Mason, Ford, Nellie, and Henley Roberts, and Judah and Finley Davenport, his sibling Larry Davenport (Donna), his former wife Nancy Hartenbach, and many nieces, nephews, and close friends. Hank is preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Bernadine Cornwell Davenport, and his brother, Bill Davenport.
The family would like to give a special thank you to Hank’s team, who cared and supported him through his battle with Parkinson’s.
A Celebration of Hank’s life will be held Thursday, February 15, 2024, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Five Oaks on Warson, 1200 N. Warson Rd, Olivette, MO.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a Memorial Contribution in memory of Chief Hank Davenport to The City of Olivette Parks and Recreation, Five Oaks on Warson, 1200 North Warson Road, Olivette, Missouri, 63132.
BERGER MEMORIAL SERVICE
