Pleasanton Police, City Mourn Passing Of Officer Kyle Henricksen

PLEASANTON, CA — The Pleasanton Police Department and the city are mourning the passing of one of their own. Pleasanton Police Officer Kyle Henricksen died Tuesday after a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was just 36 years old.

“Kyle left us all with a sense of awe and amazement in his courageous and remarkable fight, defying odds and exhibiting amazing strength with a smile he shared so easily and so frequently with others," Pleasanton Police Chief David Spiller said. "Kyle touched us all in ways that we will be forever grateful. Now we reflect on our time with Kyle as a gift in each of our lives.”

Pleasanton City Manager Nelson Fialho said, “I'm very saddened by the loss of Kyle, our co-worker and friend. He was an exceptional officer and his presence will be missed in our organization and community. On behalf of the city, we are eternally grateful to Kyle and his family for the decade of service to Pleasanton and will be honoring his life and service to the community by lowering flags to half-staff at our city facilities for the remainder of the week."

Born and raised in Manteca, California, where he lived with his wife, Jennifer, and their
four children — Cohen, 10, Zoey, 12, Alyssa, 18, and Destani, 19 — Henricksen began his law enforcement career as a recruit with the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office in June 2005. He worked for the ACSO as a deputy sheriff for three years before joining the Pleasanton Police Department in January 2009, according to Pleasanton Police Lt. Maria Munayer.

Henricksen worked a variety of assignments throughout his career, including six years as a patrol officer and four years as a motor officer in the Special Operations Unit. As a motor officer, he conducted special enforcement assignments on problem roadways, and worked countless traffic collisions where he was often commended for his diligent and thorough investigative skills, Munayer said.

Henricksen also worked numerous community outreach details, including the School Valet Program, First Wednesday Street Fairs, Special Olympics, Read Across America, Coffee with a Cop, and Cone with a Cop. He participated in the mutual aid response to Sonoma County during the devastating wildfires, and he served as a board member of the Pleasanton Police Officer’s Association, Munayer said.

Henricksen received an associate of arts degree in Liberal Studies from San Joaquin Delta College in December 2004. In addition, he held a bachelor of science degree in Criminal Justice Management from Union Institute and University.

Henricksen enjoyed spending time with his family going to the movies, kayaking, camping, and fishing. He was an avid reader and enjoyed pursuing hobbies such as woodworking and playing the guitar, banjo and harmonica.

His favorite sports to watch were hockey (San Jose Sharks) and baseball (Oakland A’s). He loved useless trivia and according to his family, he had an endless supply of it. His witty sense of humor was uplifting and appreciated by all, Munayer said.

"Kyle will be missed by all in our organizational family and community," Munayer added.

Information regarding Henricksen’s memorial service will be forthcoming.

Read more about Officer Henricksen's courageous fight:

A Year Later, Pleasanton Officer Continues Battle Against Cancer

Omni Fight Club Helps Pleasanton Police Officer Kick Cancer