Fair Winds and Following Seas: Honoring Master Chief Charles E. Henderson Jr.

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life of service that we announce the passing of Master Chief Charles E. Henderson Jr., age 78, who departed this life on February 6, 2026. A proud Navy Veteran, a lifelong learner, and a devoted family man, he leaves behind a legacy defined by adventure, duty, and deep-rooted love.

A Life of Distinguished Service & Ambition

Born in Walla Walla, Washington, in 1947, Charles’s journey was one of constant motion and dedication. Growing up between the bustling streets of Seattle, the rugged landscapes of Butte, and the mountains of Helena, Montana, he developed a resilient spirit that led him to enlist in the United States Navy at the age of 18.

Over a distinguished 29-year career, Charles demonstrated exceptional leadership, working his way through the ranks to achieve the prestigious rank of Master Chief. A veteran of both the Vietnam War and the Gulf War, his service was marked by assignments on several storied vessels and stations, including:

• USS Sperry
• USS Bainbridge
• USS Enterprise
• USS Nimitz

Throughout his career, he was stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; San Diego, California; Exmouth, Australia; and Subic Bay, Republic of the Philippines. In recognition of his dedication and excellence, he was the recipient of several Meritorious Service Awards.

Upon retiring from the Navy in 1993, Charles’s ambition didn’t rest. He enrolled at the University of Washington, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, proving it is never too late to pursue a new goal.

Purple, Gold, and Seahawk Blue

A true son of the Pacific Northwest, Charles was a passionate sports fan. He spent many Saturdays cheering in the stands at Husky football games and was a die-hard Seahawks fan, rarely missing a chance to support his teams. His loyalty to his home teams was only matched by his loyalty to his country and kin.

Family and Legacy

Charles is now reunited with his beloved wife, Lois Henderson, and his daughter, Shari Henderson, who both preceded him in death. He was also preceded by his mother, Delsie Bissig, and his sisters, Dorothy Crow and Ginger Henderson.

He is survived by his sister, Lois Harvey, and his daughter, Michele (Travis). His strength and character live on through his cherished grandchildren: Sydney Bart (Kristian), Austin Landis (Hannah), Madison Landis, and Shantel House (Thomas). He was the proud great-grandfather of Madeline and Tobias.

Charles is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Wes LeMay (Aggie) and John Pemod (Rene), and his sisters-in-law, Laura Bailey (Michael) Alma Borm (Kurt). He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by several nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

“I can imagine no more rewarding career. And any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction: ‘I served in the United States Navy.”‘ -John F. Kennedy

Services & Reception

Military honors and a memorial service for Master Chief Henderson will be held on: May 22, 2026, at 12:00 PM Fort Harrison Helena, Montana

Following the service, the family invites friends and loved ones to join them for a reception at the family home in Helena to share stories and celebrate Charles’s remarkable life.

Arrangements and cremation are under the care of Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home. Friends and family are encouraged to visit their website to view the online obituary and share memories on Charles’s tribute wall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a veteran support organization, the Cherokee Nation Champion At Large Scholarship fund or the University of Washington Alumni Fund in his honor.

Service Schedule

Military Honors

12:00pm

Friday May 22, 2026

Montana State Veteran's Cemetery

3550 Heroes Rd.

Fort Harrison, Montana 59636

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