Joseph Contarini Hendry was born in Santa Barbara, Calif., to 1st generation Italian Yolanda (Bobbie) Contarini Hendry and 1st generation Walter Hendry, whose parents immigrated from Scotland. 

Because it was during the Great Depression and his family moved several times with Joe attending most of the grammar schools in the city, his circle of friends was vast and varied which contributed to Joe’s ability to create friendships easily with anyone. He was a star running back for the Santa Barbara High School Dons although he and the coach argued continually about cutting his thick, Italian curly hair which length, back then, was mandatorily short!

After obtaining his teaching degree, Joe taught at Grover Beach and Tulelake, Calif., before moving to Burns where he taught Junior High for twenty years, first in a self-contained classroom (all subjects) and then Arts and Crafts at Lincoln Jr. High. 

Joe was an artist himself creating many beautiful clay vases along with his students and throughout his life colorful and striking silkscreens and oil paintings. Joe lived and breathed hunting, especially chukars, and was out in all areas of Harney County with his son, Greg, and special friends on any given day. 

Joe leaves behind his beloved wife of 59 years, Sally Hendry; his son, Greg and daughter-in-law, Deborah Hendry. At his request, there will be no funeral, but donations can be made in his name to High Desert Partnership, 235 Hwy. 20 North, P.O. Box 252, Hines, Oregon, 97738.