Pat Henderson: living life to the fullest
Pat Henderson served his country and served the people of Roscoe Township for many years. He isn't idle in his retirement.
Pat Henderson is hard to miss. His jovial smile, gift of gab, and unmistakable large mustache are his calling cards. He was born in Rockton and is a graduate of Hononegah High School, Class of 1965. He has lived in the Roscoe area most of his life. He is a veteran and served in Korea, a lesser known hotspot during the Vietnam era.
Pat worked for Wisconsin Power and Light (now Alliant Energy) in Beloit for 35 years before retiring 18 years ago. He may have retired from his job, but he has been anything but idle since then. Self-described as a "Gearhead," he enjoys passing on his knowledge of cars. He is presently working on a 1967 Tempest for his grandson.
Pat and his wife Cathy have been married for 55 years, and have lived in Roscoe for many years. However, they love their second home near Minocqua, in Northern Wisconsin, where they spend several months every year. Their children, Adam and Stephanie, and four grandchildren are frequent visitors.
In 1981, Pat decided to run for Roscoe Township trustee. "I have always been interested in politics and in what is happening in the Roscoe area." He was elected to the board and went on to serve for the next 44 years.
According to Roscoe Township resident and friend, Dawn Cassady, Pat has always taken a conservative approach to township issues. Much has happened in the Township since 1981, and Pat was involved in all of it: The Stone Bridge Trail and lookout, Kenwood Creek Path, Kelly Meyers Park, the Hononegah Bike Path, the 17-acre Founders Park purchase, including the Robert Cross property. Pat was an important negotiator who helped bring the property price down from the asking price of $450,000, to $277,000. "He helped preserve a piece of Roscoe history," Cassady said.
The original Robert Cross home has been refurbished and is now the home of the Roscoe Historical Society at 4562 Elevator Road in Roscoe, adjacent to the Roscoe Township Community Center.
Pat and Cathy are enjoying their retirement and time with their family, although he does admit to missing his many years as a trustee.
