Kerry Henson

Kerry Henson, 71, of Kansas City, MO, passed away January 24, 2016, near cherished loved ones. Inurnment will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to the high school jazz band of your choice.Kerry was born October 22, 1944, in Tucumcari, NM, to Alice (Polefko) Workmaster. An only child, he was raised in Trinidad, CO, and Denver, CO. In Denver, his passion for music developed, and relentless practice helped him become an accomplished musician. By his teens he had become one of Colorado's most accomplished young jazz drummers, performing in numerous bands and clubs. Kerry's music studies took him to Colorado State University and Mesa College. His love of music extended to teaching others, both as the band director of Palisade High School and private tutor to numerous budding musicians. Kerry fondly remembered being named teacher of the year by his students at Palisade H.S. He played over six instruments himself - most by ear - and, even in his later years, delighted family, friends and neighbors playing jazz improvisation on piano.When not traveling the Western Slope with various jazz ensembles, Kerry also enjoyed his weekend gigs as part of the house band at the famed Moose Lodge of Grand Junction, CO. He was occasionally joined by his young son, who slept behind Kerry's stool as the band played on. Later in business, Kerry made his Diamond Vogel paint store the top performing store in the company.Father, grandfather, musician, teacher, businessman, philosopher, skier, and tennis player are a few of the words that describe Kerry. He made Grand Junction his home until he moved to be closer to family. He loved time with his family, as well as chess, Porsches, great dogs (Stinky and Fletch), Wimbledon, sun bathing, epic pool parties, the Broncos, illegal fireworks, Scotch, escargot, lasagna, and smoked oysters.He was preceded in death by his mother and is survived by his son, Tyler, daughter-in-law, Amy, and three grandchildren, Ellie, Cooper and Thomas.