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Project Overview

Kathy Henning, Original Owner of Val’s Rapid Serv, and Country Manor Resident Turns 100

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 16:11:18 GMT

Above: Kathy, joined by three of her sons, laugh as they reminisce during a recent interview for the St. Cloud Times.

A Celebration of Family

The strength of the Henning family is evident in every aspect of Val’s Rapid Serv. Kathy is proud that the restaurant has remained in the family for generations. “I’m so happy that my grandsons are now running the business,” she says. “I hope it will stay in the family forever!”

The bond between Kathy and her children is evident, even during this interview where they laugh, share stories and memories only siblings would know, and finish each other's sentences. Three of her children joined her for a recent interview at Country Manor, where Kathy now resides. The love and connection they share was palpable.

Kathy credits her longevity to the close-knit relationships she has fostered. When asked what the secret to a long life is, without a moment of hesitation, Kathy says, “Spending time with my family is the secret to living a long and happy life.”

Kathy is celebrating turning a century old today.

Her family hosted a private party to mark the milestone.

Today, on Kathy’s actual birthday of April 7th, Kathy is busy being celebrated by Country Manor staff and neighbors.

When asked how it feels to turn 100, Kathy asks, “Are you sure I’m 100?” Which is a valid question as you would never guess it looking at her. When this sentiment is shared with her, her eyes sparkle with delight. She pauses and says, “Maybe Val’s French fries are the key to a long life,” with a smile. Kathy’s husband, Val also lived to an impressive 97 years old.

Above: Newspaper clipping celebrating Val's 50th Anniversary. Kathy is seen behind the grill with her husband, Val.

Looking Ahead

In 2009, Val’s Rapid Serv celebrated its 50th anniversary, a remarkable achievement for any business, especially an independent, family-run fast food restaurant. Now, at 65 years old, Val’s continues to thrive as a family business, serving generations of loyal customers. For Kathy, it’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and love that her family has poured into Val’s Rapid Serv over the years.

As Kathy and her family look to the future, they remain focused on continuing the legacy that Val and Kathy started more than half a century ago. Through all the changes, Val’s Rapid Serv has remained a cherished part of St. Cloud’s fabric, and the Henning family’s dedication to each other and the business ensures that it will remain a staple for generations to come.

Long before JFK was president, before the Vietnam War, before man set foot on the moon, and way before personal computers, video games, or cell phones—there was Val’s Rapid Serv… and Kathy Henning running the show. Both are key moments in history, if you ask us. :)

And if you’ve ever needed a sign that you definitely deserve the fries—well, here it is!

Kathy has also been featured in local publications. Click here to read the article in the St. Cloud Times.

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