Allen Ray Henderson

Allen grew up on the breaks of the Salmon River in White Bird, Id. Attending grade school in White Bird and graduating in 1963 from Salmon River High School in Riggins Id. In his youth, he loved to spend time with his friends Rusty and Daryl Bentz hunting, fishing, and exploring along the Salmon River. Mischievous at times, it wasn't uncommon for Allen to play practical jokes on his Dad that often ended with him being in a little trouble.

After graduation, Allen moved to Boise where he spent time working at the state capitol. On March 6, 1980 he joined the crew at Bentz Fence in Lewiston as the shop Manager, Allen was well respected by the employees and customers and built a strong rapport with all of them.

Allen married Janet Remington Knight, the love of his life on August 6, 1988. He enjoyed teaching his stepsons everything from hunting, to building fences or working on cars. Allen was very patient and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others. After work, Allen often spent hours in his garden, with his best friend Suzy, a black Chow. In the 15 years Suzy was alive, she never left his side not even for a minute. He spoke fondly of her to the end. We all know she is waiting for him in heaven.

Allen retired in 1994 and moved back to White Bird with his wife, Janet. He so loved being back on the Salmon River and spent many hours outside with his spotting scope watching deer. He spent time in the summer helping his wife run Jim Kilgore's fruit stand. One of Allen’s greatest achievements was Antelope hunting in Wyoming and shooting the largest Antelope in the hunting party. He loved Boxing and attended many local boxing smokers and even a professional bout in Las Vegas, a match that was later deemed the fight of the century. He was also a member of the Finest Fifties and Sixties Car Club and loved to cruise in his 57 Chevy BelAir.

He loved to spend time with family. Everyone enjoyed his stories as much as he liked to tell them. He had a natural wit and humor that would capture everyone in the room.

In July, 2009, they moved to Las Vegas to spend more time with family and enjoy the warm sunny days.

Allen is survived by his wife Janet, of Las Vegas, mother Marjorie Matiska of Grangeville, brother Richard Henderson of Anchorage AK, sisters Marie Imgram of Clarkston, Rita & Dave Mundt of Grangeville, stepchildren, Don & Renee Knight and Tony & Brigitte Knight both of Las Vegas NV, Jackie & Gary Fotchman of Springdale, WA. and Fonda Tousley of Moscow, ID, five grand daughters, four great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Allen is also survived by his two dogs Dolly, a Border Collie and Lacy, a Rat Terrier along with his African Grey Sparky. He called them "his girls".

He was preceded in death by his Father, Horace.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will take place at the I.O.F. hall in White Bird on Saturday, October, 23rd at 11:00 a.m. A celebration of life will follow at the hall with dinner provided.

Please visit and sign the guestbook at his lasting memorial online at www.mem.com

Donations in his name can be made to the Lewis-Clark Humane Society or the White Bird fire department.