Clayton Henke, 84, of Devils Lake, North Dakota, passed away surrounded by family. 

Born on February 10, 1942, to Edward and Elfrieda Henke, Clayton spent his life on the family farm in the Penn/Churchs Ferry area until moving to Devils Lake in 1985. Clayton was a farmer through and through. His love for the land wasn’t just a profession; it was a calling. He found joy in early mornings, long days, and the quiet satisfaction of tending a field from planting to harvest. Even in his final days, that passion never wavered. When asked what he was doing as he sat on the edge of the bed, his answer was simple: “Anhydrous.”

His commitment to farming was matched only by his love for his family. On November 26, 1966, he married Cathy Barstad. Together they built a life rooted in faith, hard work, and deep devotion to family. They raised three children: Cari, Cory, and Cami, who grew up learning the value of perseverance, determination, and a touch of stubbornness from their dad.

In his younger years, Clayton embraced adventure and fun with a quiet confidence. He loved waterskiing, felt the excitement of flying an airplane, enjoyed playing cards and pool, and spent many happy hours golfing with friends and family. One of his favorite pastimes was spending time at the “Water Hole.” Clayton also had a passion for hockey, spending a lot of time at the Burdick Arena while raising his children. He was a lifelong fan of the game, and his love for it continued throughout his life. He and Cathy treasured their season tickets and spent many memorable nights cheering on the Fighting Sioux together.

One of Clayton’s greatest joys came later in life: being a grandpa. He loved his grandchildren dearly and found endless amusement in their antics—especially watching his grandsons tear around the yard with his golf cart, sometimes running straight into trees, and happily sampling every treat his granddaughter baked for him. Those moments brought him pure delight and filled his days with laughter.

Clayton will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his steadfast work ethic, and the quiet pride he took in the life he built. His legacy lives on in his family and the countless memories shared by those who loved him.

Clayton is survived by his wife, Cathy Henke, children, Cari (Brooks) Rankin of Waconia, MN, Cory Henke of Devils Lake, ND, and Cami Kasel of Andover, KS; seven grandchildren - Alex (Maddie) Rost, Jacob Rankin, Logan Rankin, Lucas Rankin, Tanner Rankin, Brody Kasel, and Brecken Kasel; in-laws Connie Henke of Seattle, WA, Coby (Judy) Barstad of Woodlake, ND, Dwight (Judy) Barstad of Colorado Springs, CO, Brenda (Rick) Schnaderbeck of Monte Vista, CO, Brent Barstad of Prior Lake, MN; and his many cherished nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Clayton was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Elfrieda Henke, sister Vernice (Alfred) Johnston, brother Norman Henke, Cathy’s parents Herby, Ruth, and Rose Barstad, brother-in-laws Donn Barstad and Kim (Brenda) Barstad, nephews Rick Johnston, Rick MacArthur, Allan Tofsrud, and Jay Hartl.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 4:00 at Peace Lutheran Church, where he was a Charter Member. Burial will be in the Devils Lake Cemetery following the service. Following the burial, supper will be served at Peace. Please join us in celebrating Clayton’s simple favorites - sweets, a good plain hamburger, and a cold Pepsi.

Memorials may be directed to Farm Rescue in memory of Clayton.