Henry Shernoff

At Golden State Round Up, 1983

Henry Shernoff
08 Dec 1941 - 31 May 1985

Clubs & Associations

Obituary

Henry Shernoff
Henry Shernoff died peacefully at his brother's home in Manhattan on May 31 following a one year bout with Kaposi's sarcoma. He is survived by his parents Ruth and Mark Shernoff, his brothers Michael, Jeffrey and Jerry Feldherr, his sister Barbara Safchik and many friends. He was 43 years old.

Henry was a native of New York City who for the past eight years had lived in San Francisco where he worked as a freelance make up artists and hairstylists for the television and commercial industries. He was at the height of his career when he became ill, working for many celebrities.

He was a member of the Western Star Square Dancing Club and Great Outdoor Adventure. He loved square dancing, playing bridge and the outdoors. Living in San Francisco gave him the opportunity to spend much of his leisure time sailing, horseback riding and hot air ballooning.

Upon confirmation of his diagnosis he returned to New York City and immediately began to do volunteer work at Gay Men's Health Crisis. Even after becoming confined to a wheelchair he continued to attend his GHMC support groups, yoga class and various recreational activities.

The manner in which he adjusted to each setback and new manifestation of rapid physical deterioration was with remarkable dignity and zest for life. This was a continual inspiration to those around him. He fought a hard and powerful battle with his illness. This is one legacy he leaves behind.

He requested contributions in his memory to GHMC, Box 274, 132 W 24th St., New York City, NY 10011.^[1]