Cartor Benjamin Vernon Hencke

Cartor Benjamin Vernon Hencke was born on June 28, 2006, to Benjamin V.R. Hencke and Kellisha McArtor. From the beginning, Cartor was a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew him—a young man with a heart and soul that truly felt larger than life.

His hugs were legendary—deep, heartfelt, and healing. To be embraced by Cartor was to feel loved in the purest way. He loved Jesus deeply and carried God’s light into every room he entered, touching lives with his joy, compassion, and unwavering kindness.

Cartor was smart, witty, and full of life. He had a gift for laughter and loved to make others smile. His passions were as boundless as his spirit: a talented and aspiring chef, he proudly earned his food handler’s certification and dreamed of attending culinary school. He was also an exceptional athlete—blessed with an arm like a cannon and speed that was nothing short of astonishing.

Whether under the hood of a car or out exploring the great outdoors, Cartor’s hands and heart were always busy. He was a gifted mechanic, a lover of nature, and a true friend to many. But more than anything, it was his smile and the sound of his laugh—full of joy, sometimes mischief—that people will remember most. Always smiling, always loving, always living fully.

Cartor had been accepted into the Navy SEALs and Aviation Program and was set to begin this honorable journey on September 18, 2025. He was deeply proud and excited to serve his country.

He loved life’s simple joys: spicy food (especially Subway), hiking, fishing, PlayStation games, fast cars, jokes and pranks, movies, goofy texts, family vacations, and spending time with the people he loved most. He was a magnet for laughter and love.

Cartor is survived by his parents, Benjamin Hencke, Kellisha McArtor, and Erica Lawless; his sisters, Makaylie Hencke and Josiphine Clore; brothers, Jordan Cratch, Gabriel Gaston, and Khai Sheraden; grandparents, Tom and Erika McArtor and Dennis and Marilyn Lawless; as well as a large circle of family and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Though words could never fully capture the incredible person Cartor was, those who knew him will carry his light, laughter, and love with them always.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family at: For Cartor, 2802 West Kent Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901

Ministry of Comfort Lovingly Entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.