Joseph Leroy Henderson

October 7, 1927 - December 9, 2020

Joseph L. Henderson Sr. was born in Sanger, California on October 7, 1927. He passed on December 9, 2020 in Escondido, California in the presence of his loving wife and three children. Joe had a very happy youth growing up on a farm in Shafter, California with his mother, father and one sister, Jean. Joe entered the Army as a private in 1945 at the end of WWII. After a wonderful 25 years he retired from the Army in 1969 as a Lieutenant Colonel. Joe met the love of his life, Vi, in Japan in 1947. They were very happily married for 71 years. During his Army career, he had over 25 duty stations and they lived throughout the United States and all around the world. During this time they raised their daughter, Janis and their two sons, Joe Jr. and David. After retiring from the Army in 1969, Joe started a new career as a manager of Pacific Glass and Mirror that was located in San Diego. Twenty-two years later, after helping to make Pacific Glass and Mirror the largest and most successful glass company in the San Diego area, he retired as part owner. Upon full retirement Joe and Vi moved to Canyon Lake, California where Joe became an avid golfer for 26 years. In military fashion, he was an active member of the golf club, the yacht club, the Canyon Lake Men's Club and the local square dance club. Joe was a Mason and a Shriner for many years. Joe will be remembered by all who knew him for his exemplary character to include exceptional honesty, integrity and trustworthiness. Joe is survived by his wife, three children, three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.