Henry Wollman Bloch was born on July 30, 1922, in Kansas City, Missouri. He was raised in a close-knit family and had a strong entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. After graduating from high school, he briefly studied at the University of Missouri-Kansas City before transferring to the University of Michigan, where he earned his degree. Bloch later attended Harvard University's Business School, where he honed his skills in finance and business management.
After completing his education, Bloch returned to Kansas City and co-founded H&R Block with his younger brother, Richard Bloch, in 1955. The company revolutionized the tax preparation industry by offering affordable and reliable services to individuals and small businesses. Bloch's dedication to providing excellent customer service and his innovative marketing strategies helped H&R Block grow into a household name.
Throughout his life, Henry Bloch was known for his generosity and commitment to giving back to his community. He and his wife, Marion, established the Marion and Henry Bloch Family Foundation, which supports various charitable causes in the Kansas City area. Bloch's philanthropic efforts led to the construction of several landmarks in his honor, including the Henry Wollman Bloch Fountain and the Bloch Building at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
In addition to his philanthropic work, Bloch was actively involved in various civic and cultural organizations in Kansas City. He served on the boards of directors of several nonprofit organizations and was a vocal advocate for education and the arts. Bloch's dedication to making a positive impact on his community earned him widespread admiration and respect.
In 2000, Henry Bloch stepped down as Chairman of H&R Block and took on the role of Chairman Emeritus. Despite his retirement, he continued to be actively involved in charitable activities and remained a beloved figure in the Kansas City community. Bloch's legacy as a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist will always be remembered, and his impact on the tax industry and his community will continue to be felt for generations to come.