Albert A Henderson

Albert was born in Pasadena, California, and spent his early years with his mother and stepfather in the Hollywood Hills. As a young man, he joined the U.S. Army and served as part of the 3rd Infantry Marksmanship Division, rising to the rank of Specialist in firearms repair. He spent one year in the national guard in Camp Roberts, CA, and 3 years in Germany. After his honorable discharge in 1966, he returned to the Southwest and made Tucson, AZ his lifelong home.

In Tucson, Albert made his mark both professionally and personally. He worked for Jensen’s Custom Ammunition before acquiring a small gun repair shop of his own. He founded the Christian singles club “The Sword and Key,” where he met the love of his life, Kathleen Park, a compassionate social worker who was a strong advocate for children with disabilities. They were married in 1972, and together raised two daughters, April and Allison. He remained deeply devoted to Kathleen and his two daughters throughout his life.

Together they built both a family and a business, A&K Manufacturing, initially producing model Civil War cannons. What began as a small operation eventually became Al’s Machinery, a trusted local source for industrial metalworking equipment. Albert’s dedication to craftsmanship and mechanical precision shaped the business and earned the respect of both customers and colleagues. For over 35 years, he worked side by side with his trusted colleague and dear friend, Isaac.

Albert also had a passion for people and the outdoors. Outside of work, Albert taught West Coast Swing at Pima Community College, and also became a hiking guide for Southern Arizona’s Hiker’s Club, leading to many local dance competitions and treks through Sabino and Bear Canyons. He was a teacher at heart—whether guiding young hikers, instructing dance students, or mentoring family members in the shop. He especially enjoyed sharing his mechanical knowledge with his grandson, Morgan Knippen, helping him earn his Shotgun Shooting merit badge and build Pinewood Derby cars.

Albert will be remembered for his tireless work ethic, helpful spirit, and unending loyalty to those he loved. In his later years, he often reflected on his roots and fondly repeated, “No one loves you like your mother.”

He was preceded in death by his mother, Juanita Cousins; his father, Albert Henderson; and his beloved, Kathleen Park Henderson. He is survived by his daughters, April Knippen and Allison Henderson; his grandson, Morgan Knippen; and a legacy of hard work, resilience, and deep family love.

A private memorial will be held by the family at a later date.