Stephen Douglas Henderson, age 77, of Atchison, Kansas, died on October 22, 2026, at his home surrounded by family. He was born on April 14, 1949, in St. Joseph, Missouri, the son of Charles “Virgil” Henderson and Winifred May “Winnie” (Schreiber) Henderson.
Stephen graduated from Leavenworth High School and earned his bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University. He began his working life as a third-generation family member at Henderson Meat Company. He later spent most of his career with KCP&L at the Iatan Power Plant, where he held a variety of positions and designed system operations. He retired from KCP&L after many years as a dedicated employee.
Beyond his career, Stephen was known as a fixer of all things, someone whose practical skill and steady presence benefited those around him in countless ways. He took care of many family home improvement projects and was the person others could count on when something needed attention. He loved golfing and was a member of Bellevue Country Club. He also enjoyed joining friends for morning coffee club at CVS, where companionship and conversation were part of the rhythm of his days. He appreciated the Calvin and Hobbes comic strip, participated in community music bands, and played the saxophone. Music also became part of cherished family milestones, and he sang in many family weddings.
On October 16, 1971, he married Dianna Christian in Atchison, Kansas, beginning a marriage that remained central to his life. In addition to his wife, Dianna Henderson, he is survived by his children, Stephen D. Henderson II “Beau” and his wife, Lisa, Christian “Brady” Henderson, and Brooke Van Ness and her husband, Randy. He is also survived by his brothers, Michael Henderson and Brian (Janet) Henderson.
His family was a lasting source of pride and joy including his grandchildren Ashley (Joseph) Felton, Austin Henderson, Lyndsey Vittitow, Brookelyn Vittitow, Ashley Van Ness, Jordan (Drew) Kloepper, Addison Van Ness, Mercedes (Caleb) Knight, Lauren (Paxton) Myers and Marian Henderson; and his great-grandchildren Gavin, Harper, and Gunner Felton, Roman Johnson, Leighton Kloepper, and Holden and Baylor Knight.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and infant daughter, Megan Rebecca Henderson.
Private family services will be held. Memorials are suggested to St. Benedict Catholic School or Maur Hill-Mount Academy in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home, where friends are welcome to sign a register book and leave cards for the family.
