John K. Henson, 89, of Sterling, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Resthave Care & Rehabilitation (Skilled Care) in Morrison, IL.
John was born July 3, 1936, the first son of Kermit and Charlotte Scott Henson. He graduated from Sterling High School in 1954 and enlisted in the United States Air Force. He attended a specialized Drafting School at Belford Army Base, along with additional training at Travis Air Force Base in Northern California. He served from 1954-1958 and spent the majority of his enlistment in Omaha, NE, at the SAC Headquarters. He had fond memories of hanging a map in General LeMay’s office and loved sharing stories of his time in the Air Force. After returning to Illinois he attended Rockford Business College. On November 24,1962, he married Marie Carney in Sterling. They had two children and foue grandchildren. John retired from Northwestern Steel and Wire in 1998 after working there for 36 years. He enjoyed his work and colleagues at NSW and made lifelong friendships. He enjoyed traveling to Dubrovnik, Czechoslovakia, London, and on Viking Cruises. John was a fantastic cook and was known for his homemade pasta, soups, grilling, and delicious dinners. He loved history, gourmet food, cooking, gardening, fishing, and Tuesday lunches with friends. He enjoyed spending time with family and meeting new people. Most of all, John loved spending time, and enjoying activities, with his children and grandchildren.
John is survived by his daughter, Margo (Herman) Rodriquez of Elgin, IL; son, Andrew (Tracy Wilkins) Henson of Morrison; grandsons, Benjamin Rodriquez of Madison, WI, and Alexander Rodriquez of Iowa City, IA; granddaughters Emily and Katherine Henson of Morrison.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 62 years, Marie; brother, Donald Henson; sister-in-law, Karen (James) Boesen.
John chose to have his body donated to the Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois for Science.
No services are planned at this time, but it was John’s wish that you do an act of kindness in his memory.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, or Resthave Care & Rehabilitation in Morrison.
A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.
Arrangements were completed by the McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls, IL.