Leonard "Keith" Hensley, age 83 of Farmington Hills, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on September 22, 2024.

Born on May 9, 1941, in Broadway, England, to Len and Gladys Hensley, Keith's early years were shaped by a love for learning and exploration. He attended St. Richard’s Primary School and Alderwasley Hall, before his family made the courageous decision to immigrate to Canada in 1954 aboard the RMS Empress of France, arriving in Toronto on Keith’s 13th birthday. They settled in Solina, where Keith began his lifelong career in the automotive industry at the young age of 16 with General Motors, working on the Boys Line. His dedication and skill earned him a technical degree in Tool and Die that supported him through his career in the automotive industry.

In 1967, Keith joined Lear Corporation, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that would span decades. At Lear, in 1975 he met the love of his life, Carol Hannahson, and they married in February 1984. Their move to the United States on April 24, 1983, was driven by his dream of working in the epicenter of the automobile world. Keith’s notable expertise and leadership skills ultimately led him to retire as Vice President of Manufacturing / Engineering in 2004, with four patents to his name.

He was passionate about classic cars, and his involvement in the historical automotive community was profound. He was a proud member of the Packard Club, the Antique Automotive Club of America (AACA), and The Historical Automobile Society of Canada (HASC), where he served as both Regional and National President. He wasn’t just a collector; his lifelong hobby was to restore these classics from the bottom up.  He won many trophies and awards for his cars at many car shows across Canada and the United States.  Known for his welcoming spirit, Keith’s garage was a hub for friends and neighbors alike.

A true historian at heart, Keith loved to travel both for work and pleasure. His adventures often included visits to museums, where he absorbed local histories.  His adventures took him across countless countries, where he enthusiastically embraced local cultures and inspired his family’s love for exploration.

Together Carol and Keith loved spending summers at the cottage in Ipperwash Beach and winters in Florida, creating lasting memories with friends and loved ones.

Keith had a talent for storytelling and a deep appreciation for poetry, leaving a legacy of creativity that his family will cherish. He loved nothing more than gathering with family, especially during the holidays. Christmas was his favorite time of year, filled with laughter as his grandchildren listened to his tales—often with a delightful embellishment or two.  He had a way of making each one of us feel special.

Keith will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His legacy of love and adventure will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Keith was the beloved husband of Carol for 40 years. Loving father of Ken (Stacie) Hensley, Kelly Hagen, Bronwyn (Bob) Taylor, Andrea Gleich. Proud grandpa of Lindsay, Kali (Ryan), Shawn (Madi), Faith (Evan), Lauren, Maddie, Zoe, and Lance and one great-grandchild on the way. Dearest uncle of Susan (James) Appleby.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Len and Gladys Hensley, and his siblings, Kenneth and Pauline.

Memorial visitation for Keith will be held Friday, September 27th, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at McCabe Funeral Home, 31950 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills.

In lieu of flowers, family request that memorial donations in Keith's name be directed to the American Cancer Society, 29777 Telegraph Rd Suite 1451, Southfield, MI 48034 or the Packard Proving Grounds (The Packard Motor Car Foundation), 49965 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township, MI 48317.