Carol Dean Henderson

We are sad to announce the passing of Carol “Dean” Henderson of Rainier, Washington. He died at the age of 89 on December 10, 2022. Dean passed away surrounded by loved ones at his home after a long battle with cancer.

Dean was born on April 26, 1933, to Reese and Matilda Henderson in Bronson, Kansas. Dean attended Iola High School and after High School joined the United States Navy. He served in the Navy from 1951-1954 during the Korean War.

After his service in the Navy Dean moved to Ridgefield, Washington to live with his Aunt Vivian and Uncle Pearl Talbert. He started working for United Pipeline in 1955 which later became William’s Pipeline. This was the beginning of a 35 plus year career with the company. Dean worked his way up from a laborer to an Inspector. He also worked for several years after retirement as a contracting inspector for William’s Pipeline.

In 1956, Dean met Anna Jean Heine in Vancouver, Washington. Dean and Anna Jean went on to have 7 children, Rick, Randy, Rhonda, Rashan, Robin, Robert, and Rebecca.

In 1975, Dean met Nancy Claire Reed in Battleground, Washington. Dean and Nancy went on to have 4 children, Dean, Danny, Donny, and Ted.

In 1990, Dean retired from William’s Pipeline and spent his time working around the house, growing his garden, hunting, camping, and spending time with family and friends.

Dean is predeceased by, Reese (father), Matilda (mother), Orville (brother), Wayne (brother), Daphne (sister), Cleone (sister), Jeanie (sister), Rashan (daughter), Dakota (granddaughter), Vivian Talbert (aunt), and Pearl Talbert (uncle).

Dean is survived by his wife Nancy, 10 children, many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Dean was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Dean had a million-dollar smile and a heart of gold. Dean worked hard each and every day of his life and fought until the end. Dean was one of the toughest, old-school guys ever. He demanded and earned respect from everyone he met. There will never be another quite like him. He may be gone from our site, but never from our hearts.

Services for Dean will be held at Mills & Mills funeral home in Tumwater, Washington on February 3, 2023, at 1:00 pm. In leu of flowers please send a donation to a charity of your choice for cancer research in Dean’s name.