The University Record, June 19, 1995
OBITUARY
Robert C. Hendrix
Robert C. Hendrix, professor emeritus of pathology, died at his home on June 12 following a long illness. He was 76.
Hendrix received a master’s degree in zoology and an M.D. from the U-M in 1941 and 1948, respectively. He became a full professor of pathology in the Medical School in 1965 and remained in that position until retirement in 1983.
In addition to his academic work, he was known for his role as Washtenaw County deputy medical examiner. During the nearly 40 years he held that title, he performed thousands of autopsies and helped in many criminal investigations. Among the most notorious cases were the so-called “co-ed murders” that ended in the early 1970s with the conviction of John Norman Collins, and the trial of U-M psychology major Leo Kelly, who was convicted for the shooting deaths of two students in Bursley Hall in the 1980s.
Hendrix was the first president of the Michigan Association of Medical Examiners and was a member of the Washtenaw County Medical Society, the Michigan State Medical Society and the Michigan Society of Pathologists. He authored 28 publications and co-authored three books. After retiring he continued to provide consulting services in forensic pathology.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by four children and eight grandchildren. A memorial service was held at Muehlig Funeral Chapel June 17. Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia Society of America or the Nature Conservancy of Michigan.
