Ronald David Henderson

Ronald David Henderson, aged 81, passed away on July 12, 2024, in Wasilla, Alaska after a long battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis. Born on July 6, 1943, in Westhope, North Dakota, Ron was a beloved husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sherry Henderson; daughters, Perri Schumacher (Jim), Tracy Clark (Rich), and Jennifer Henderson; grandchildren, Jacob Lord (Chelsea), Hannah Lord, Connor Clark, Gavin Clark, and Hadden Gerharz; great- grandchildren, Wyatt Cousins, Brody Cousins, Miles Lord, and Maverick Cousins; and sisters, Betty Woods and Noreen Hanson. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lucille Henderson, brother Duane Henderson, and sister Carolyn Henderson.

Ron graduated from Westhope High School and served honorably in the US Army National Guard for 8 years. His career began in the grocery business in Columbia Falls, Montana. In 1967, he moved to Alaska to work for Carr Gottstein, eventually becoming a store manager and opening several stores. In 1971, he bought into Sales Corporation of Alaska, where he worked as a food broker until his retirement in 2011.

Ron was a fixture in his community, known for his integrity, generosity, and sense of humor. He was a member of The Elks Lodge of Kenai where he worshipped and served on the board. His passion for sports led him to a distinguished career as a sports official, officiating over 2700 games in basketball, track, and football across Montana and Alaska, which earned him induction into the AK High School Hall of Fame in 2018. He was one of the founders of the Great Alaska High School Basketball Tournament.

Ron loved fishing at his home on the Kenai River, mentoring youth in high school sports, and enjoying time on the beach in Puerto Vallarta. He made lifelong friends everywhere he went and was a father figure to many. He was very proud of his family and loved them fiercely.

A service to celebrate Ron’s life will be held at a later date. Contributions in memory of Ron can be made to the Elks Lodge in Kenai, Alaska. Ron’s legacy of love, laughter, and community service will be cherished and remembered by all who knew him.