David James Henderson

David “Dave” Henderson, 69, of Venice, Florida passed away on November 18, 2025.

Dave was born on August 10, 1956, in Cleveland, Ohio. As a child, he moved often due to his father’s career with Air Canada. He grew up in many places, including Montreal, San Francisco, New York and Chicago. He took great pride in being a dual citizen of Canada and the United States, and his love of travel and new experiences continued throughout his life.

A proud graduate of Northern Illinois University (BS ’78, MA ’81), Dave didn’t confine himself to a single path. He reinvented himself many times, building a successful career in sales and operations in the healthcare and insurance industries, notably as president of the Commonwealth Health Alliance in Charlottesville, Virginia and head of The Henderson Agency, a medical professional liability insurance agency in Illinois. He and his wife, Cindy, enjoyed many trips awarded in recognition of his sales achievements. Dave was known among colleagues for his genuine, straightforward personality and his humor.

Dave enjoyed life to the fullest. He found happiness in many pursuits—golfing, listening to music, playing poker, boating on the Chain O'Lakes, and traveling to Ireland, Switzerland, Spain, Italy and across Canada and the United States. A lifelong fan of the Montreal Canadiens and NIU Huskies, Dave followed his teams with unwavering loyalty throughout each season.

Above all, Dave loved his family. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Cindy (Doherty); his son, Patrick; his daughter, Sarah; his sisters, Josephine, Janet and Robin (Chris); his goddaughter, Allison; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Margaret Henderson, and his in-laws, Donald and Rosalie Doherty. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 13th from 1-4pm at Boone Creek Golf Club in Bull Valley, Illinois.

In honor of Dave, please consider becoming an organ donor or contributing to Donate Life America.

We would be so grateful if you share a favorite memory or photo, and the next time you’re with people you love, raise a glass in his honor and remember him with a good story and a laugh.