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Official Obituary of

Henry M. Korker

August 7, 2025
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Henry Korker Obituary

Henry “Hank” Korker, devoted husband, father, veteran, and community advocate, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025 at the age of 64 after a short but courageous battle with cancer.

Hank was born in Englewood, NJ to the late Margaret and Henry Korker. He grew up in Englewood, NJ and was a 1979 graduate of St. Cecelia’s High School.

Hank enlisted right after high school and served honorably in the United States Coast Guard for 21 years, retiring in August 2000. Hank met his wife, Sherri Korker while stationed in New London Connecticut. Hank was a very well-respected Heavy Weather Coxwain and Boatswain’s Mate.  While serving, he earned the Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, Bicentennial Unit Commendation Ribbon, Commandant’s Letter of Commendation Ribbon with Gold Star, National Defense Service Medal, USCG Special Operations Service Ribbon, Sixth Coast Guard Good Conduct Award, Secretary’s Outstanding Unit Award, Humanitarian Award, among others.  He mainly ran search and rescue boats in places like New London, Sandy Hook, Beach Haven, Ocean City, and more.  His last station was USCG Station Great Egg Harbor.

Hank married his wife Sherri Korker in 1984 and was married over 41 years.  He was an amazing husband and proud father of Michael Korker.

Prior to his passing, he worked as a Foreman at Cedar Glen West, where he worked more than 10 years.  His work family meant a lot to him and he was well respected by his co-workers and residents living in the Cedar Glen community.

Hank was a proud member of the American Legion, MICA Club, and Elks. 

Throughout his life, Hank exemplified integrity, leadership, and service. Following his military retirement, Hank remained dedicated to supporting fellow veterans. He helped lead several major fundraising efforts, including raising funds for local Hurricane Sandy relief efforts, $19,000 for the Coast Guard Enlisted Memorial and organizing four Veteran Suicide Awareness events, which collectively raised just under $200,000.

Hank is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Sherri Korker; his son, Michael Korker and daughter-in-law, Patricia Korker; his grandson, John Korker; his sister and brother-in-law, Debbie and Raymond Smith, as well as his devoted dog, Molly.

Hank lived a life marked by selflessness, quiet strength, and kindness. He was a great friend to many and will be remembered for his deep devotion to his family, friends, and country.

There will be a celebration of life October 4, 2025 at the Lacey Elks 1pm – 5pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Ma Deuce Deuce at MA22.org a non-profit dedicated to eradicating veteran suicide, or to Semper Fido, at About Us - Semper Fido a non-profit that rescues dogs, trains them to be service animals, and pairs them with veterans in need — at no cost to the veteran.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Henry M. Korker, please visit our floral store.


Services

Celebration of Life
Saturday
October 4, 2025

1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Lacey Elks Lodge 2518
900 Beach Blvd.
Forked River, NJ 08731

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