Henk, a mole, was a close friend of the Kwak family before their tragic deaths in a car accident during a heavy rainstorm while moving their home. The accident occurred when Alfred, a duckling, was distracted chasing a frog, which spared him. Following this loss, Henk becomes Alfred's adoptive caregiver. He initially houses Alfred in his grandfather's residence before relocating to a distinctive clog-shaped dwelling. Acting as a single parent, Henk provides consistent supervision, emotional support, and practical guidance throughout Alfred's upbringing, from early childhood into adulthood.

Henk functions as Alfred's moral anchor and source of stability. He regularly offers counsel shaping Alfred's ethical development, encouraging responsibility and kindness. This guidance occurs against a backdrop of diverse challenges Alfred encounters, including political conflicts and environmental crises. Henk's presence remains constant across Alfred's maturation, including his transition to independence and involvement in complex societal issues. The series portrays Henk as a foundational influence from Alfred's youth through adulthood, without significant alteration to his core characteristics or circumstances.