Michael LaVahn Henderson, 74, of New London, died Wednesday, October 5, 2022 at the Veterans Hospital, Iowa City. He was born in Hawthorne, Nevada on March 5, 1948 to Thomas and Wanda “Dutch” McCrady Seeley and was raised by his mother and his father Miles Henderson who adopted him.
He was a 1966 graduate of New London High School. He was an Airborne Infantry Pathfinder for two tours in Vietnam. He received several medals including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He was a pipe fitter and belonged to the local 212 and retired from the local 225.
Michael married Elizabeth Ann Garvey and they raised their six children together before divorcing. He then married Hazel Johnson who preceded him in death. He spent his final years with his companion, Phyllis Cox in New London.
He was raised in the Methodist church but later joined the Catholic church; was a member of New London VFW Post #7641 and American Legion; enjoyed riding his Harley, working on old gas engines, hotrods, drag racing in high school, and time spent with his grandchildren.
Survivors include his children Casey (Michele) Henderson of New London, Andrea (Sean) Perkins of Marion, North Carolina, Gabriel Henderson of Gulfport, Illinois, Nathaniel Henderson of North Liberty, Patrick (Ali) Henderson of New London, and Gretchen Henderson of Lexington, Kentucky; six grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren; his special friend Phyllis Cox; brother Robert (Susan) Henderson of Mt. Pleasant; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother; both fathers; wife Hazel; and two half-brothers.
According to his wishes, his body has been cremated and a private inurnment with military rites by the Henry County Honor Guard will be held at Burge Cemetery, rural New London. A Celebration of Life for Mr. Henderson will begin at noon on October 29, 2022 at New London VFW Post #7641. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for New London Fire and Rescue and New London VFW Post #7641. Online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.