Gale Henson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Gale Melvin Henson, 74, of Liberal, passed away Friday, August 6, 2021

Gale was born November 9, 1946, in Stockton, MO. He graduated from Madera High School (California) in 1965, and enlisted and served in the United States Army before settling in rural Missouri.

When Gale passed, this world lost one of its all-time best husbands, fathers and grandfathers. He loved his wife and family, above all and his actions left little doubt as to the depth of that love.

A man o greatf faith, Gale prayed for his family daily and his servant’s heart set an example for all those who were blessed enough to know him.

Gale married his wife, Leanna in 1975, taking on the responsibility of loving and raising two children. Fifteen months later, his only child, Lana (the apple of his eye) was born.

Whether it be his “blood” or “bonus” children, Gale left no doubt that he would sacrifice anything for his children, always putting his needs second to that of his family.

He was a proud veteran, joining the United States Army at only 17 years of age. He served his country proudly, reaching the rank of Sergeant. Countless lives were no doubt saved, thanks to the training he provided to young soldiers.

After his service, he worked various jobs, retiring as a printer from Hix Corporation, Pittsburg.

No matter how hard, hot or dirty the job, Gale approached each task as if he were performing it for the Lord. He had an unsurpassed work ethic, which he passed on to his children and grandchildren.

Gale enjoyed his life on his Vernon County farm. Whether gardening, cutting wood or tending to the family’s farm animals, it was not unusual to hear him whistling a happy tune.

But as much as he enjoyed his quiet country life, he also love to travel. His journeys took him across the U.S. and to exotic locations. He was adventurous and tried everything from snorkeling in tropical waters to rafting river caves in Belize.

Whenever grandchildren or great-grandchildren visited, they seldom made it into the house before he took them out to visit new baby chicks or calves. And, it was almost a guarantee that he would manage to “rile up” the youngsters, much to the chagrin (and secret amusement) of their parents, left to calm down the giggling, hyper children, who couldn’t wait for the next trip to the farm or a visit from Grandpa.

In his later years, Gale treasured being able to spend quiet days on the farm with his wife. The love for his wife was second-only to his love for his Lord and, of that, there was no doubt.

Whether it was to give advice, help with a project, celebrate a sporting victory (or prop up after a loss), attend a concert or even help bale hay, his children and grandchildren knew he was only a phone call away.

He was mischievous and loved to tease, something to which his family (including his five sisters, nieces and nephews) can attest. He was a loving son and brother (who his family nicknamed “Butch”, during his childhood in California.

Although he may not have been of unusually large stature, he was the strongest man his family ever knew. His passing left a void, which will only be filled by the love he left behind, in the hearts of those whose hearts he touched during his time on this Earth.

In addition to his parents, Gale was preceded in death by a brother, Virgil Henson.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Leanna Dickey Henson, children Lana Adel (Mike) of Oronogo, MO, LaDonna Allen (Stewart) of Carl Junction, MO and Dallas Gossett of Carl Junction, grandchildren Eli Adel, Ethan Adel, Ezra Adel, Levi Jacks (Kim), Dakota Allen (Tawni), Braydon Allen, Austin Gossett, Tiffany Gossett, seven great-grandchildren, siblings Belva Adams, Helen Collett, Eva Bramlette, Carol Jackson, Pat Davis, as well as a host of extended family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Cremation arrangements are under the care and direction of Parker Mortuary.