In Memoriam: Benjamin Hendrickson Page 9

Back in the summer of 1967 I had the opportunity to work with a really neat young man named Ben Hendrickson at a drama workshop at Purdue University. Although I have not been a regular watcher of ATWT, I did see him win the Emmy… My mother thought I had lost my mind when I started whooping and hollering! I was shocked and saddened to hear of his death. I always wanted to keep track of the folks that were at Purdue that summer….

I am not an actress but a techie theatre person (there were only a couple of us there that summer. I remember Ben as a friendly chap with loads of talent. The only other person that I have had any information on is Dan Von Bargen.

Please extend my deepest sympathies to his family and castmates….

A poem I learned at Purdue comes to mind…. tomorrow , I say i will contact him…here’s a telegram , he died today, and thats what we get and deserve in the end, around the corner, vanished friend.

Rest in peace, dear Benjamin, rest in peace

Lee Ann Holly

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I was very saddened by the passing of Benjamin Hendrickson. He played Hal Munson beautifully. No one will ever take his place. The only reason I watched ATWT was to see Hal Munson. He was a really great guy. He will certainly be missed.

My prayers are with Benjamin and his family and his friends.

Sincerely,
Esther

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I was stunned to her that one of my favorite actors had passed away. My heart hurts for Benjamin’s family and friends, especially his longtime coworkers. He was always a joy to watch, and I will miss him greatly.

My sincere condolences,
Diane Dietz

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Hal has been one of my favorite characters on ATWT for as long as he has been on it. This breaks my heart. What was going on in his life that had him at this point? I wish he would have known how many of us admired and supported him. My sympathies to his family and friends. Is there anything we who careded for him can do — although it was just through the TV?

Natasha Stephens

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I am saddened to learn of Benjamin’s tragic death. It’s unfortunate that co workers, friend or family didn’t recognize the warning signs
which led up to his sad demise. I’ve enjoyed Hal’s character portrayal over the years . . He was a soap staple and news of his death has
touched me. I surely pray that Benjamin is at peace and free from whatever burdens he deemed insurmountable.

Donna M. Rega

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I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family as well as the cast and crew of As the World Turns.

Benjamin was a real talented actor. He has been battling depression for some time and I can understand that. I have been in his shoes and depression can make you feel like you have no place to go or no one to turn to. It is hard watching his last scenes and more difficult since it is the death scenes of TV daughter Jennifer Munson, played by Jennifer Ferrin. Benjamin “Hal Munson” Hendrickson will be missed.

Debra Whitfield

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As a loyal ATWT fan for 30 years, I am deeply saddened about the death of Benjamin Hendrickson. He was truly a great actor. Watchiing him play the scenes during Jennifer’s death was so heartbreaking. I can’t help but think that may have affected him. I know he cannot be replaced. Please offer my deepest sympathy to the cast and crew of ATWT as well as his family members.

Sincerely,
Joan Moriarty
Cape Elizabeth, ME

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