Henry J. Pinkston, 78, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026. Henry was born October 7, 1947, in Chicago, IL, to Henry and Virginia Pinkston. He was preceded in death by his dear sisters, Virginia Pinkston, Isabella (Ronald) Niznik, and Sally Pinkston.

Henry is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia, and their two children, Thomas of Itasca, IL, and Deborah (Steve Woodall) of Deerfield, IL. He also leaves behind three cherished grandchildren: Edward Pinkston (Gauri Kumari), Emily Pinkston, and Madeline Woodall.

Henry was a devoted family man. He and Pat shared nearly 60 years of marriage before his passing. They met as teens in their Chicago neighborhood and made their family home on the Northwest Side for 46 years. Family was always at the center of their lives, and together they made deep sacrifices to send their children to Catholic schools—from grade school through university.

Henry's commitment to serving others extended beyond his family. In 1966, at age 19, he answered the draft call to serve his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He sustained an injury in service and was awarded the Purple Heart before his tour in Vietnam ended.

Following his military service, Henry built a career defined by the same dedication and perseverance he brought to every aspect of his life. He earned a good living for his family as a stationary engineer, working for the City of Chicago for more than 30 years before retiring in 2001. His work often required long hours and shift schedules that meant sacrificing sleep and family time—sacrifices he made willingly to provide for those he loved.

Outside of work, Henry found joy in life's quieter pursuits. Throughout his life, he was an enthusiastic marine aquarist whose hobby reflected his gentle nature. He also loved classic movies, especially those featuring John Wayne. And he relished an afternoon nap!

Retirement gave Henry more time to enjoy the simple pleasures that meant the most to him. He treasured spending time with Pat, regularly visiting the community fitness center together and keeping up with their grandchildren. He loved good food and welcomed invitations to family dinners and barbecues, where he always looked forward to Steve's cooking, was quick to compliment the chef, and never missed the chance to slip treats to the family dogs. He loved to laugh and was known for goofing around, especially with his grandchildren.

In the last months of his life, Henry faced many physical challenges related to Parkinson's disease. He never complained and worked tirelessly to regain his strength despite many setbacks. He quickly became a favorite of the many devoted healthcare professionals who cared for him. They appreciated his graciousness, work ethic, and gentle spirit. Throughout his life, he was quick to say "thank you," and his warm smile had a way of lighting up a room.

Henry was deeply proud of his family, and he gave them every reason to be proud of him.

His quiet kindness, humility, and devotion to those he loved will be remembered by all who knew him. Though he is greatly missed, there is comfort in knowing that his physical struggles are over and that he rests in eternal peace.

A Mass honoring Henry's life will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, at St. Norbert Catholic Church, 1809 Walters Avenue, Northbrook, IL 60062. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. Interment All Saints Cemetery, De Plaines, Section 45, Block O, Grave 6.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests any gifts be directed to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

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Arrangements entrusted to Evanston Funeral & Cremation, Roland F. Weis director. Info 847 866-8843. Condolence and guestbook at evanstonfuneral.com