Richard K. "Rick" Hennig

Richard K. “Rick” Hennig, 67, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026.

Rick was born to Richard J. Hennig and Arlene Friedrich Hennig on September 12, 1958. Rick spent much of his life on the waters of Lake Michigan, where his love of sailing began at an early age alongside his parents. That passion became a lifelong pursuit filled with competition, friendship, mentorship and adventure.

Rick was the owner and President of Rite Engineering Company, where he dedicated himself to his work with the same energy and determination he brought to every aspect of his life.

On May 7, 1993, Rick married the love of his life, Laurie Christensen Hennig. Together they built a life centered on Family, friendship, and the sailing community that Rick cherished so deeply. He was a proud father to his son, Richard J. “Richie” Hennig of Racine.

Rick is further survived by his sisters, Kathleen Hennig Banker and Cynthia Hennig, in-laws, Nancy and Joe Borzynski and JoAnne and Marc Elsmo; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless lifelong friends. And we can’t forget Rick’s two Golden Retrievers, Newman and Cosmo. He loved those boys and never missed a walk with them, regardless of the weather.

A gifted sailor and fierce competitor, Rick spent decades racing sailboats across the Great Lakes. Alongside crews made up of lifelong friends, family, and college sailors from Madison, Rick celebrated many memorable victories. In 2013, they earned Line Honors in the Trans Superior Race. In 2014, aboard Denali, they placed first in their section in the Chicago Mac Race, and in 2024, aboard Medicine Man, they again won their section in the Chicago Mac Race. In 2024 and 2025 they were overall winners in the HOOK Race. For Rick, however, the victories were never about the trophies. What mattered was the camaraderie, the teamwork, and the lifelong friendships formed on the water.

Rick was passionate about introducing young people to big boat racing, giving many kids opportunities and experiences they may never have had otherwise. He was deeply committed to promoting and preserving the sport of sailing for future generations.

Beyond freshwater sailing, Rick was an avid ice boater. Rick owned The Deuce, the world’s largest iceboat at 54 feet long. He and his friends traveled throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota and even Montana attending regattas and enjoying the adventure and fellowship that came with the sport.

Rick also loved a good boat project, perhaps even more than the racing itself. Whether restoring, modifying, or preparing for the next challenge, he found joy in the work, the craftsmanship, and the process of bringing boats to life.

Rick also enjoyed driving his 1969 Dodge Superbee, Rock and Roll and singing Karaoke, he loved singing My Way and Summer Wind by Frank Sinatra. Rick lived his life “His Way”.

Rick will be remembered for his generous spirit, competitive drive, mentorship, humor and unwavering love of the water, his family and his friends. His presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

Rick is preceded in death by his father, Richard J. Hennig, and his nephew, Steven Banker. Rick’s In-Laws, Corky and Janice Christensen.

There will be a celebration of life on July 25th, 2026 at Racine Yacht Club at 1 Barker St., Racine, WI 53402 starting at 12:00pm, Noon.

Memorials can be made to Racine Yacht Club Youth Foundation, The Racine Zoological Society or one’s favorite charity