Henry Biernacki Obituary

Biernacki
Henry Biernacki
November 9, 1972
May 16, 2025

In Loving Memory of Henry Lyle Smith Biernacki
Born November 9, 1972, Died April 16, 2025
Henry, affectionately known as "Hank," passed away in Cancun, Mexico, due to complications of malaria contracted while traveling through the Congo in Africa this March.
Born in Greenville, Pennsylvania, Hank's adventurous spirit was evident from an early age. He possessed a deep sensitivity to the world around him. He overcame severe dyslexia, rising from Special Education classes in his early schooling to a 4.0 High School GPA. He was a 4-sport varsity athlete, earning 12 varsity letters. He was an Academic All-American for wrestling and the only 4-sport letterman from Wasson High School.
He graduated from Colorado College in 1996, majoring in Romance languages and International Affairs while also playing football and baseball. Following his time at CC, he also attended universities in Guanajuato and Oaxaca, Mexico, playing baseball. He completed a rotation through Perignon, France, as well.
Henry was a licensed airline pilot, type-rated in seven aircraft. Hank didn't just fly; he soared. He found serenity in the skies and purpose in sharing his passion with others. Known not only for his flying skills but also for his generosity, he mentored aspiring pilots and supported friends and strangers alike on their journeys.
Henry was a published author of two books, one of which was profiled in the New York Times. He also has a pictorial book of his travels ready and awaiting publication. Hank was a thoughtful writer, capturing the poetry of everyday life and the adventure of the unknown. His stories, like his travels, were honest, unguarded, and deeply human.
His love of language opened doors across continents; he became fluent in six languages with the ability to get by in multiple countries. He did this not to impress, but to listen more deeply and connect more genuinely with others. Henry was a seasoned traveler who had traveled to over 175 countries. Each journey was a testament to his enduring belief in human connection and understanding. His motto was "Kindness is free."
His most cherished moment of his extraordinary life was a profound visit with Mother Teresa, three days before she passed away. He knocked on the mission door in Calcutta and simply asked if he could have an audience with her. They attended Mass, had breakfast, and spent three hours visiting. Her humility and grace left an indelible mark on his heart and deepened his lifelong commitment to kindness, humility, and service. While in Nepal, Hank climbed to the Base Camp of Mt. Everest in six days, crushing the previous world record of nine days. He did not understand pulmonary edema and what caused it. This was evident in a photo he took of himself when reaching the base. Henry supported an orphanage for girls in Sudan and was working toward supporting another in Mexico. When asked why girls' orphanages specifically, he responded, "Girls have fewer advantages than boys."
For Henry, travel was never about collecting stamps in his passport; it was about meeting the people, hearing their stories, and honoring their humanity. Whether in a quiet monastery or a bustling market square, he found meaning in every exchange.
Hank was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend to so many. He is survived by his mother, Sindy Biernacki, and devoted sisters, Vikki, Tiffany, Tricia, and Stacy. He was a loving uncle to Nick, Henry, Jasmine, David, Collin, Drew, and Taylor, each of whom he inspired to see and experience the world and its people.
Henry's warmth, insight, and ever-present sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him. Hank lived life unafraid to ask questions, to love deeply, to embrace the unknown, and to encourage others to do the same. His legacy is one of courage, connections, and an unwavering belief in the goodness of people.
A quote from his book The Steppe: "I am good at many things, but goodbye is not one of them."
A service will be held on May 24, 2025, at Divine Redeemer Catholic Church, followed by a Celebration of Life at Patty Jewett Golf Course.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Make-a-Wish Foundation or Special Olympics, which were important to him.