Everett E. DENCKLAU

DENCKLAU, HENDERSON

Posted By: Sarah Thorson Little (email)
Date: 1/27/2013 at 12:34:02

August 23, 1932 --- January 21, 2013

Everett (Denck) E. Dencklau was called home to the Lord on January 21, 2013. He was born to William and Emma Dencklau on August 23, 1932, was baptized a child of God on September 18, 1932, at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Vincent, Iowa, and was confirmed in the faith on April 14, 1946. Denck attended public schools and later earned a bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Iowa State and was also a member of the Delta Chi fraternity. He later earned a masters degree in Management from the University of Southern California. He served his country faithfully as a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and had assignments in the US, Libya, Germany, England and Vietnam. He flew 151 missions in Vietnam and his combat decorations included the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with nine oak clusters. He retired as a lieutenant colonel in May, 1978, after 22 years of distinguished service.

He met his wife Betty in 1954 and married her in June, 1955. Together, Denck and Betty, along with their daughter Shelby and son Grant, travelled the world, finally settling in Lakewood in 1973.
Even after retiring, Denck and Betty loved traveling. Their last journey was to Israel, Egypt, and down the Nile River to the Valley of the Kings and Queens in 1999. Denck enjoyed fishing, traveling in his motor home, snow skiing, stained glass, golf and cheering on the local sports teams. He was an active member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Tacoma for many years.

He is survived by his wife Betty, daughter Shelby Henderson of Tacoma, son Grant Dencklau (Carole) of University Place, grandson Chad, and granddaughter Colby. He is also survived by his sister Marie of Gowrie, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers.

A memorial service will be held on February 2 at 11 a.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Tacoma, Washington - 140 E. 56th St.

"...Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him..." (Revelations 3:20)

January 27, 2013
Fort Dodge Messenger -- Fort Dodge, Iowa

Tacoma News Tribune -- Tacoma, Washington
January 27, 2013