Patricia Henderson

Pat Henderson, age 66, died unexpectedly on July 27 at her home in Des Moines Iowa.

Pat (aka Patty, Tish, Trish, Pats) was born on March 19,1956 to Bill & Marie Vranich. Two years later, she fell into the role she was always meant to play, the gregarious, funny, outgoing, caring middle child of the family.

Pat attended and graduated from St Joseph Academy and Dowling High School where she joined the Stepperettes and not only thrived in the fast paced and fun environment but met lifelong friends.

In 1975, Pat married, and this union brought the birth of Pat’s greatest joy, her daughter Jennifer. At this time, she also began her job at Allied Insurance, which ultimately became Nationwide, where she spent her entire working career. She was known for being a dedicated, hard -working employee and a friend to all.

Pat brought joy and brightness to every gathering, with her zany antics and bright personality. We always looked forward to her corn casserole at family gatherings. She took after her dad in so many ways, her knowing there was a use for all “things”, her outspoken personality and her loving jabs. In her retirement years, she found joy in spending time with both daughter Jennifer and granddaughter Lexi, who truly were her world. She also was a huge help to her mother Marie, being her girl Friday, doing her grocery shopping, taking her to her appointments and making the daily 7:30 pm call, to check on her and remind her that she was loved.

Pat is survived by her daughter Jennifer Henderson, granddaughter Lexi (Anthony) Allen, mother Marie Vranich, sister Cathy (Dennis) Whitlatch, brother Steve (Tori) Vranich, niece and nephews Tony, John, Gage, and Emma, and great-nephew Mason. She was preceded in death by her father Bill Vranich, partner George, and grandparents.

As you remember Pat, raise a toast of Mountain Dew, think of her laughter and live as she tried to live, seeing the best in others, and with a steadfast and unwavering love for family and friends.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the ARL.

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