Kenneth Wilbur Henson

Kenneth Wilbur Henson, son of the late George William McKinley “Mack” and Jessie Opal (Fenton) Henson, was born November 4, 1923 in Richland, Missouri where he grew up and attended school. During his senior year of high school, Kenneth left Richland and went to Illinois and worked as a lineman. While there, he met the love of his life, Emma “Darlene” England. They were married on February 28, 1942 in Grand Detour, Illinois. Kenneth and Darlene spent the next 59 years together before she preceded him in death on April 5, 2001. They shared many wonderful memories and were blessed with four children: Karen Shirlene, Larry Mac, Kim Duane, and infant Kerry Kent. Kenneth entered the United States Army and served his country faithfully until his honorable discharge. After leaving the military, Kenneth returned to Richland and began working at the International Shoe Company as a cutter until it closed. He then worked as a custodian and maintenance man for the H.D. Lee Company before becoming manager of the Western Auto in Richland where he spent the majority of his working years. In his spare time, Kenneth worked on small engines and was well known as an excellent auto mechanic. He enjoyed being outdoors while coon hunting with his Dad and other friends and family during his younger days. The one thing he treasured more than anything was spending time with his family. He was a true family man. He was very proud of his family and loved them tremendously. Kenneth passed away at 7:50 p.m. Saturday, December 29, 2012 in the Richland Care Center of Richland, Missouri having attained the age of 89 years. He will be sadly missed by all those that knew and loved him. Kenneth leaves to cherish his memory, his children: Karen Shirlene Gan (Norman) of Waynesville, MO, Larry Mac Henson (Pat) of Richland, MO and Kim Duane Henson (Becky) of Marshfield, MO; 10 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; 1 great-great granddaughter; other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents and wife, Kenneth was preceded in death by his infant son: Kerry Kent Henson; two sisters: Mildred Pauline Burnett and Beulah Irene Lundh; one infant sister: Rosalyn Henson; one infant brother: Bobby Don Henson; one granddaughter: Twyla Michelle Henson; and two great grandchildren: Toby Mac and Nikata Dawn Henson Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 2, 2013 in the Memorial Chapel of Richland with Rev. Christopher Hendrix officiating. Serving as escorts were Duane Gan, Larry Joe Gan, Garret Gan, Barry James Henson, Tommy Henson and Gary Henson. Honorary escort was Norman Gan. Special music selections recorded by grandson, Thomas Gan included, “God Only Cries” and “Go Rest High on that Mountain.” Burial followed in the Mt. View Cemetery near Richland. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapel of Richland. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in memory of Kenneth Henson to the Mt. View Cemetery Fund and may be left at the funeral home.

Kenneth Wilbur Henson

November 4, 1923 - December 29, 2012