Obituary of Leonard Lee Henson

Leonard Lee Henson, 88, of Cross Timbers, Missouri, passed away at his home on June 20, 2013. He was born March 9, 1925 in Lebanon, Missouri, son of Artie and Lusettie Henson and was the third youngest of eight children. Leonard�s first paying job was throwing papers as a preteen for the Kansas City Star. He made 75 cents a week. He served his country in the Navy during WWII from 1943-1946. He was a lifelong Mason and Shriner and member of Masonic Lodge 433 in Macks Creek, Missouri. He owned Henson Construction Company in Kansas City for several years before moving to Cross Timbers in the mid 1970�s. In his early retirement years, Leonard raised Charlois cattle on the land he loved, enjoyed hunting and fishing, tending his large vegetable garden and found relaxation reading western novels and playing computer solitaire. It was a yearly joy to devour his smoked ribs that rivaled the best BBQ in Kansas City. He thrived being the shepherd of his farm and watching all the creatures inhabited there. Leonard was considered a loyal and selfless friend to all who knew him. He was respected, hardworking, and was the caliber of man whose presence and life made a difference. Surviving are his wife of 57 years, Ellen (Mickey) Henson of Hermitage, Missouri; one daughter, Joyce Kast of Cross Timbers, Missouri; one son, Danny (Roxann) of Atchison, Kansas; one brother, Paul (Eva) of Festus, Missouri; two grandsons, and four great-grandchildren. Leonard was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Eldon, Donald, and Raymond; and three sisters, Pearlie Elliott, Jeraldine Green and Freida Proffitt. The family wishes to thank everyone at Hospice Compassus, and Chaplain Joe for the loving care and compassion they gave Leonard. Donations may be made to Hospice Compassus in Osceola, Missouri.