Thomas Anthony Henrichs

Thomas Anthony Henrichs, age 83, of Independence, Kansas passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Medicalodge. Funeral Services will be 2:30 p.m., on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Potts Chapel with Pastor Kevin Peterson officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery Lutheran Section. The family has suggested memorials to Zion Lutheran Church, and they may be left at the funeral home.

Thomas was born December 26, 1941, In Iola, Kansas to Edna (Wulf) Henrichs and Martin Thomas Jefferson Henricks. He attended Humbolt schools, graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelors Degree in Education and received his Masters of Science degree from Kansas State Teachers College of Emporia. He taught physical education and science at Cherryvale Middle School and High School for six years as well as coached various sports. He taught science and coached at Independence Middle School for 31 years before retiring in 2001.

Thomas married Karen DeNeise Cook on August 2, 1970, at Zion Lutheran Church and she survives at the home.

He held professional membership in the Independence Teachers Association and was named Master Teacher as well as being named to Who’s Who in Kansas.

Thomas was also a member and served on the board of numerous civic organizations where he was recognized for his dedication and involvement in the community with the Zeus Award given by Epsilon Sigma Alpha. For over fifty-five years he was a member of Lions Club including two terms as president of the club. He was a twice named Melvin Jones Fellow award recipient by Lions International. He was an alumni of Beta Sigma Psi fraternity and also a member of Zion Lutheran Church where he served in Various capacities over the years including elder, trustee and vice president of the congregation.

Survivors include his wife Karen of the home, one daughter Laura Ritterbusch and her husband Jason of San Antonio, Texas and one grandson Henry Thomas Ritterbusch. He was preceded in death by three brothers Joe, Bob, Martin, and his parents. To leave a special message for the family please visit www.pottsfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Potts Chapel.