Dawson Wayne Henderson

Dawson Wayne Henderson, fourth child of David Otto Henderson and Kristin Leann (Nelson) Henderson was born on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at Lake Regional Hospital, Osage Beach, Missouri.
The moment little Dawson was born, he captured everyone's hearts with his sweet tender loving smile. He loved being held and cuddled by everyone; however, his mommy and daddy's hugs and kisses were the best! His big brothers and sister always made Dawson giggle with excitement!
Dawson was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia at age six months and for the next year and a half of his life, Dawson bravely battled the disease with his mommy by his side in Saint Louis. The hospital became their home, away from home. After Daddy's work weeks ended, David would bring the children up for visits, which brought great joy and much needed comfort to the entire family, however, leaving was especially difficult for everyone. Many of the staff become family to the Henderson's. Kristin and David will always appreciate all the love and support from so many people along this most difficult journey of their family's life.
Dawson enjoyed life and his energy had no boundaries. Some of Dawson's favorite things to do included blowing bubbles, drawing, coloring, marking up the glass doors at the hospital, playing with his brothers and sister, farm animals, watching Cocomelon, and the Minions, or "Mimi" as he called them. Dawson also liked the song, "We Don't Talk About Bruno" from the movie Encanto. He loved music, people, and playtime. Dawson especially loved donuts, and every time he get one, he'd say YAY!! His newfound love was sweet tea. He also enjoyed rides and being on the go. In his quiet moments Dawson loved having his hand held.
Dawson went home to heaven in the arms of the angels on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 in the Saint Louis Children's Hospital having attained the age of two years. In his brief life, Dawson touched the hearts and lives of everyone who knew and loved him.
He is preceded in death by his great grandfather, Don Trandum Sr., great aunt, Brenda Trandum, and the family's dear friend, Bob Hibbitts.
Dawson leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving parents, David, and Kristin Henderson of their home in Richland; his siblings: Donavan, Kadie, and Declan Henderson of the home; paternal grandparents: Robert Henderson, Sr. of Stoutland, MO, and Dawn Trandum of Phillipsburg, MO; maternal grandparents: Kathy Brandt and her husband, Preston of Sleeper, MO; and Timothy Nelson of Camdenton, MO; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and a host of other relatives and many friends.
Though Dawson's time here on earth was brief, he, and his family have touched more people than we'll ever know this side of heaven. His memory will forever remain in all those he knew and loved. Today our hearts ache however, yet we find joy in knowing that little Dawson is healthy and happily playing in God's great big, beautiful garden until we see him again!
A Celebration of Life service was held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 3, 2023 in the Memorial Chapel of Richland with Dawson's Uncle, Pastor Tony Shaw officiating. Music selections included, Danny Gokey's, "Hope In Front Of Me," Sherrie Austin's, "Streets of Heaven," and Casting Crowns, "Praise You In The Storm" were played. Touching stories and wonderful memories were also shared by Dawson's paternal grandmother, Kathy Brandt, and his Aunt Ashley Shaw.
Services were under the care and direction of Memorial Chapel of Richland.
- Remember, "And we don't talk about talk about Bruno!"
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Dawson Wayne Henderson, and may be left at the Memorial Chapel of Richland.