William And Adeline Hendess Scholarship

"My parents felt that a college education was very important. They encouraged and supported me through college and graduate school, and thanks to their support I became the first person in the family to receive a doctorate."

Adeline (March 10, 1907 – September 1977) was born in New Jersey. She graduated from high school and became a comptometer operator (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comptometer) until she and “Bill” were married on May 30, 1934, she then helped Bill in his heating business by doing office work at home; she also volunteered for the Red Cross. She took an interest in my education, rewarding me for every “A” on my report cards, and allowing me to do chemistry experiments on the kitchen table (I later got a degree in Chemistry).

William (April 13, 1908 – January 1981) was also born in New Jersey. He quit high school after an argument with a history teacher and in 1924 (at age 16) went to Cooper Union (a tuition-free college in New York City) to study architecture, graduating in 1928. The depression struck, so he followed the path of his father in the trades as a brick-layer and plasterer. In the 30’s he established his own heating service company, originally in the form of a toolbox in the back of his car. Bill was a good mechanic and trouble-shooter and eventually was sought after by many customers. The company grew; he took in a partner and had several employees. He survived embezzlement by the partner in the late 40’s because he was well respected by his creditors who gave him time to get financially re-established. I worked with him during several summer and other school breaks, and still look back on those times with fond memories – we worked well together and I learned a lot. The business went on to provide his income until forced retirement in 1970 due to a back injury; at which time my parents moved from New Jersey to Florida.