Donald Elton Henderson

A visitation for Don will be held Friday, July 5, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Lima Family Milpitas-Fremont Mortuary, 48800 Warm Springs Blvd, Fremont, CA 94539. A funeral service will occur Friday, July 5, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM, 48800 Warm Springs Blvd, Fremont, CA 94539. A military honors will occur Friday, July 5, 2024 from 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM, 48800 Warm Springs Blvd, Fremont, CA 94539.

Born April 6, 1935, in Covington, VA

Don joined the United States Air Force where he served as an Electronics Technician in Germany. Upon completion of his military service, Don was recruited by the NSA (National Security Agency) where he continued to serve his country for 56 years. Being awarded several accolades and awards, including not limited to the President’s Award for Distinguished Federal Civilian Service, the highest award given by the NSA or NRO.

Don’s service continued in his private life as well; he was very active with the Boy Scouts of America, AYSO Soccer and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He received the Silver Beaver award in Boy Scouts, he was a referee for AYSO and became Exalted Ruler of 2 Elks lodges: Santa Clara, CA and Manassas, VA.

Don traveled for work and pleasure, visiting Australia, England, Italy, Turkey, Hong Kong and many road trips around the United States. His passion was fine wine and fine dining and enjoyed wine tasting everywhere he went. A life well lived.

Don is survived by his wife, Darlene Henderson, his brother, John D. Henderson (Donna) from TN, daughter Deborah Lafond (Michael Sr.) from FL, son Donald S. Henderson (Jane) from MD, and daughters Connie Ellis (Richard) and Shelly Marasco, from CA. Five grandchildren: Christopher Ellis from VA, Michael Lafond Jr. from TX, Sara Henderson (Ryan) from MD, Alex Henderson (Leah) from MD and Jessica Ellis from CA. Great-grandson, Everett Lafond from KY, along with many nieces and nephews.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Ethel Davis Henderson and John S. Henderson, his sister Sue Ellen Swihart, daughter Tricia LaRue and grandson David Lafond.