William D. "Bill" Henderson

William D. (Bill) Henderson passed away peacefully on October 1, 2015 in his home in Golden, NM. Those who knew Bill recognized his strength of character. A self-made man, never afraid of hard work, he mastered most anything he set out to do. He never compromised his values or principles and was always a man of his words. He said what he meant and meant what he said. He is survived by his daughters, Johanna Brown, of Hawaii, Desiri, and husband, Allen Pielhau, of Golden NM; granddaughter, Shanna, husband, Scott Rush; and great grandson, Eli Jared, whose birth brought Bill great joy, all of Albuquerque NM. He was preceded in death by the great loves of his life, his wife, Vera, and grandson, Jared William Pielhau. Born November 4, 1923 to John Leo and Sybil Henderson he was raised in Madrid, NM and spent summers on the family farm in Corrales. He graduated from Menaul HS and briefly attended UNM on a football scholarship before joining the Navy and serving as a carrier pilot during WW II. After the war he returned home to Madrid and worked for a time hauling coal to Los Alamos. Restless, he decided to head to Alaska leaving his prized 1947 Packard Super Clipper with the woman who would eventually become his wife of 60 years, Vera Riccon. Always ready with a good story, he claimed he had to marry her to get his car back! In 1962 Bill and Vera purchased her parents business in Golden which has remained in the family since 1918. While working at Kirtland AFB, first in security and then flight test, he helped his wife turn a failing general merchandise store into a thriving trading post featuring Native American arts and crafts. He remained active in the business until the end, valuing his relationship with the Native artists and enjoying visiting with customers. After retiring from Kirtland AFB in 1973 Bill and his good friend, Hilario Montano, spent the next 10 years building his and Vera's dream home. A special thanks to Presbyterian Hospice and Diane Alexander, who cared for both Mom and Dad at the end of their lives, allowing them to die in the home they loved. Blessed with an excellent memory, Bill enjoyed sharing the stories he collected over a lifetime. Heartfelt thanks to all of you who enjoyed listening. Your gift of time was beyond measure. At Bill's request cremation has taken place and no services will be held. Together at last, Bill and Vera's ashes will be spread on the hillside near their home.