In Memoriam: Joseph L. Henderson Sr.

Joseph L. Henderson Sr.

Joseph L. Henderson Sr. was born in Sanger, Calif. on Oct. 7, 1927. He passed away on Dec. 9, 2020 in Escondido, Calif. in the presence of his loving wife and three children.

Joe had a very happy youth growing up on a farm in Shafter, Calif. 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 the manager of Pacific Glass and Mirror 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 a part owner.

Joe was a Mason and a Shriner for many years. Upon full retirement, Joe and Vi moved to Canyon Lake where Joe became an avid golfer for 26 years. In military fashion, he was an active member of the Canyon Lake Men’s Golf Club, the Canyon Lake Yacht Club, the Canyon Lake Association of Men (CLAMS) and the local square dance club. Both Joe and Vi made many wonderful friends in Canyon Lake. They loved living in Canyon Lake.

Joe will be remembered by all who knew him for his exemplary character that included exceptional honesty, integrity and trustworthiness.

Joe is survived by his wife, Vi Henderson; three children, Janis Newlin, Joe Henderson, Jr., and David Henderson; three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.