The Government of Bermuda extends its deepest condolences to the Hendrickson family, the H&H Gombeys, and the wider cultural, sporting and community networks of Bermuda on the untimely passing of Mr Zaniko Hendrickson.

The Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, the Hon. Owen K. Darrell, JP, MP, said:
“Zaniko Hendrickson’s passing is a tragic loss to Bermuda. He was a young leader whose influence spanned culture, sport and community life, and whose commitment to service was evident in everything he did. 

“While he carried a proud family legacy, Zaniko was also building his own, grounded in discipline, generosity and a deep sense of responsibility to future generations. On behalf of the Government of Bermuda, I extend my sincere condolences to his family, the Gombey community, his sailing and Boat Club colleagues, and all who mourn his loss.”

Mr Hendrickson was a co-owner of the H&H Gombeys, the troupe’s lead drummer, and a founding member of the Bermuda Gombey Council. His passing represents a particularly profound loss, as he was a young leader whose work and influence were still actively shaping Bermuda’s cultural, sporting and social club communities.

He was the grandson of the late Lawrence “Stickers” Hendrickson Sr. (a 2005 Gombey Festival Honouree), and the late Carolyn Isabell Louise Hendrickson; the son of the late Lawrence Withfield “Stickers” Hendrickson Jr. (both 2024 Gombey Festival Posthumous Honourees) and Tammy Hendrickson. Through both lineage and leadership, Zaniko carried forward one of Bermuda’s most influential Gombey legacies with discipline, skill and deep respect for tradition.

As lead drummer of the H&H Gombeys, Zaniko was widely recognised for his mastery of traditional rhythms and his commitment to preserving the distinctive sound established by his father and grandfather. He represented Bermuda internationally at CARIFESTA in Barbados in 2017 and again in 2025, contributing to meaningful cultural exchange and proudly representing Bermuda within the Caribbean region.

The Department of Culture worked closely with Mr Hendrickson over many years through the Gombey Festival, national celebrations and cultural education initiatives. He was deeply committed to youth engagement and regularly shared lessons on Gombey heritage and other Bermudian traditions, including kite flying, with young people in schools and community organisations. This reflected his belief that cultural knowledge must be actively passed on to future generations.

Beyond his cultural contributions, Mr Hendrickson was also a respected figure in Bermuda’s sporting and social club communities. He served as Commodore of the Mid-Atlantic Boat and Sports Club and was an avid comet racing sailor, known for his leadership, mentorship and dedication to club life. He also played football recreationally with North Village Community Club in the Corona League.

Mr Hendrickson was also a valued public officer within the Ministry of Public Works and Environment. The Minister, the Hon. Jaché Adams, JP, MP, reacted: “I extend my sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Zaniko Hendrickson.

“Zaniko served the Ministry as a skilled labourer based at the Prospect Depot for several years, and since joining the public service, he has been known as a dependable and hardworking member of our team.

“His passing is deeply felt by those who worked alongside him, and our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”

The Government of Bermuda honours the life of Zaniko Hendrickson, recognising both his own contributions and the lasting impact of the Hendrickson family on Bermuda’s cultural heritage, and extends its sympathy to all those who will continue to carry forward the values and traditions he so strongly embodied.