Obituary of Henry Luis Rojas

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Henry "Hank" Rojas, who left us on March 5, 2024, at the age of 85. Born on June 10, 1938, in Brooklyn, NY, he led a life devoted to his greatest passions, family, friends, sports & career.  He was fortunate enough that the last two became one in the same.

 

After graduating from Fairfield Prep in Connecticut where he played baseball, Hank spent a year on the renowned Georgetown Hoyas basketball team as their 6’5” Center. He finished college with degrees in Business and Math from St. Francis College in Maine. He fulfilled his military responsibility with a stint in the U.S. Army.  His love of sports started early playing baseball, basketball and soccer in school, but golf became his life’s passion which was evident in his career trajectory from Sales at Wilson Sporting Goods to Vice President Sales & Marketing for Ben Hogan Golf, US, and culminating in his esteemed position as President of Bridgestone Sports (USA) home of the renowned Precept brand. Hank was the quintessential executive in that he made a successful career out of a personal mission to make golf a better game.  He was instrumental in advancing golf ball technology in the 80’s.

 

Shortly after college, Hank married Kendall Sickinger and they built a young family with two daughters, Shawn and Amy and a son, Brad, all of whom enjoyed multiple sports under their father’s rich tutelage.  Hank’s budding career moved the family many times across the U.S., ultimately landing in Ft. Worth, TX.  As a parent, Hank loved creating experiences for his kids whether cultural, historical or sports themed wherever they lived. Famous for a “mystery day,” he spared few details in orchestrating memorable events.  Throughout his many career moves, Hank collected a bevy of valuable friends, many of whom considered him extended family and remained connected to him until late in life. Known for his careful attention to impeccable appearance, Hank was often found in social gatherings with friends, family, colleagues or even friends of his children as they grew older.  As a consummate host and jester, people loved socializing with him.

 

Hank was also dedicated to his faith as a parishioner of Holy Family Catholic Church in Fort Worth.

 

When he retired from Bridgestone Sports in Atlanta, Hank went on a mission to find his perfect retirement spot with his top criteria being golf cart distance from two good courses and near his children and their families, in that order.  He pursued his handicap for as long as physically capable but remained devoted to his children and grandchildren until his final days.

 

Hank is survived by a family who adored him: his children Shawn Dailey (married to Danny), Amy Rojas, and Brad Rojas; his grandchildren Kendall Hardgrove, Truett Hardgrove (married to Hannah), and Bella Rojas; and his beloved brother Al Rojas (married to Ginny) and their children, Allison and Chris. They, along with countless friends and acquaintances whose lives Hank touched, will forever hold his memory dear.

 

A private memorial service will be held by the family to honor Hank’s life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Hank's strong spirit and enduring love for his family will remain an inspiration to all who knew him. May he rest in peace on an eternal golf course with long fairways and easy greens.