Ricky A. "Rick" Henderson

Ricky Henderson ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Kalkaska Funeral & Cremation Services on Mar. 12, 2026.Ricky Arvid Henderson, age 70, left this world to enter eternal salvation on March 10, 2026. Rick was born September 7, 1955 in Kalkaska, Michigan to Arvid "Zeke" Henderson and Erma Lucille Warner Henderson. He was the eldest of four brothers. His brother, Mike Henderson, spent hours talking about history and Vikings and was his confidant. Dennis (Jolanta) Henderson was the one he wanted to talk to when he needed some laughter. His baby brother, Andy (Molly) Henderson, was the gentle and caring one that Rick guided through educational and parental responsibilities. Deb Brode, a loyal friend of Rick, was consistently present, bringing him happiness, and the comfort of her pets.Rick was raised in Rapid City and frequently returned there regardless of his career pursuits. He valued the memories of exploring forests, rivers, and fields with the Dalton, Guy, and Deater children, among many others. David Dalton, Dale Gaylord, and Mark Guy maintained lifelong friendships, often contesting who was his closest friend. Rick graduated from Kalkaska High School in 1973, which he regarded as the best class ever. His passion for learning led him to Northwestern Michigan College, where he developed an interest in Geology. Subsequently, he attended Western Michigan University. Although college kept him away from home, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology and Elementary Education. His love for his hometown led to his viking poem:Rick the Red of Rapid CityBrave and BoldAnd what a pityHe is so very wittyTa Ha… Ta Ha… Ta Ha!!!Despite obtaining his degree to pursue his passion for teaching, Rick was employed by the State of Michigan as a Geologist within the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Quality (DNR/EGLE). He remained a dedicated employee, advancing to the position of Senior Regional Geologist. His career included postings in Roscommon and Cadillac, and he worked remotely until his retirement after more than 4 decades of service. Throughout his career, he spent weekends in Rapid City. Had health issues not arisen, he would likely still be working. His continued guidance and advice for colleagues after retirement were sources of great pride.Rick was a lifelong member of the Rapid City Church of Christ, where his beliefs were deeply rooted in tradition and community support, with God as the central focus. Through his faith in Jesus and commitment to community, he provided opportunities for numerous youth in Rapid City to engage in various activities and work. He frequently employed cousins, nephews, nieces, and neighbors for odd jobs on the family property, often concluding these chores with target practice using an assortment of firearms. He spent many hours driving through the woods in the Upper Peninsula disguised as bird hunting with his friend Bill Cornish as a way to connect with God's creation.He was the uncle to four nephews-Dylan (Lindsay Gondol) Henderson, Deryk (Kyleigh) Henderson, Jack Stewart, and Mykolas Henderson-and four nieces-Nicholle Sherwood Trubiroha, Kelly Jeanne Sherwood, Alayna Stewart, Gabrielle Henderson, Three great nieces and nephews Wyatt Gondol, Juna Gondol, and Mckinley Henderson-whose lives he enriched through advice, homework assistance, vehicle loans, and critiques of farming practices.Rick was preceded in death by his mother Erma, father "Zeke," and brother Mike. He is survived by his brothers Dennis (Jolanta) Henderson and Andy (Molly) Henderson; his devoted friend Deb Brode; stepmother Patricia (Udell) Henderson; step-sisters Debra Meadows, Sharon (Rex) Alspaugh, Jody Fritz; and stepbrother David Meadows.The visitation will be held at the Kalkaska Church of Christ on Tuesday, March 17, from 1:30 to 3:30 PM, followed by a service beginning at 3:30 PM. Burial will take place in the spring at Clearwater Township Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kalkaska Funeral Home.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.