On Nov. 14, Henry Spaulding Bettendorf, 24, died. The Saint Louis University student was a computer science major and interned with the Information Technology Services. Bettendorf, a St. Louis native, began his undergraduate career at University of Chicago before transferring to SLU.
Friends said that Bettendorf stood out because of his vibrant red hair and, according to Carole Hise, an ITS consultant, because “he always had a smile on his face.”
As an ITS intern, Bettendorf worked at the Instructional Media Center, where he helped people with multimedia projects and with technical issues around campus.
Elaine Marschik, an ITS professional, worked with Bettendorf.
“He had an eagerness to learn,” Marschik said. “He was a very driven, eager-to-help guy.”
Beyond his strong work ethic and interest in computer science, Bettendorf was known for his sensitivity toward people.
Jonathan Grim, also in the ITS department, overheard a conversation between Bettendorf and a fellow intern.
“We had a Saturday in the office where it was really slow,” Grim said. “Henry and a friend were talking about social issues, and I was really impressed by his deep love for other people.”
“At first, I thought he was kind of quiet, but I had no idea what was going on behind [him],” Grim said. “I am so thankful for that experience.”
Bettendorf’s funeral service took place Tuesday at the Episcopal Church of St. Michael and St. George located in Clayton, Mo.
Director of Campus Ministry Lisa Reiter was among the congregation at the service.
“The parish priest was very sensitive to the magnitude of the tragedy and the loss of this young person,” Reiter said. “The gospels and words spoken were comforting for the family.”
SLU’s Campus Ministry has organized an on-campus memorial service scheduled for Monday, Nov. 24, at 4 p.m. in Our Lady’s Chapel in College Church.
Any questions regarding the service may be answered through Campus Ministry’s office at (314)-977-2425.