Robert John Henley
Col. (retired) Robert John Henley passed from this life to the next with God on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, at the age of 93.
Robert, known as Bob, was preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Dahrl (Miller) Henley. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Karen (Greg) Lessman, Anne (Ed) Parker and John (Esther) Henley. He was the proud “Grandpa” to his grandchildren, Gregory, Nicole, Zachary (Tish), Ryan (Sandra), Courteney, Emily and Ian. He was also “G-pa” to his great-grandchildren, Audreana, Dalton, Greyson, Calliope, Weston, Alexios and Zeno. Bob was a faithful son to William and Anne Henley, of San Angelo, Texas, and the younger brother of William R. Henley. He was very fond of his niece and her husband, Georgia (Henley) and -Mike Grubb.
In his many years of service as a Marine Corp officer, Bob was most proud of his leadership positions that allowed him to make a difference in the lives of those he served. His example of loyalty, honesty and compassion was always mentioned when people spoke about him. One story he would often share with family and friends was of the time he was commanding officer of the Marine Corp base Camp Fuji at the base of Mount Fuji, Japan. While serving there, he created lasting relationships with the community members, most significantly by starting an orphanage for the children in need.
His greatest gift, though, was in his steadfast and humble life of faith and service. No task was too big or small for him to undertake. Bob was a volunteer for many years at Chimney Rock Archaeological Site, the forestry service, and until the very last month of his active life, he was a tireless leader volunteer at the Pope John Paul II Catholic community.
The very last conversation he had with his daughters, his grandson and Fr. Samuel was a reflection of what makes a life well-lived. Using scripture and his own life’s experiences, he shared his belief that being a faithful follower of Christ means to be of service to others. That is the example and legacy he leaves behind for his family, friends, and all who had the blessing to know him.
Please join Bob’s family in celebrating his life with a memorial Mass on Saturday, Aug. 5, at Pope John Paul II Catholic Church, 353 S. Pagosa Blvd. Mass will begin at 10 a.m., with interment and reception immediately following.
The family has requested that any remembrances in honor of Bob’s generous heart be made in the form of a contribution to your favorite charity.
The family wishes to send a special thank you to his loving friends of the Pope John Paul II faith community and to the wonderful nurses and doctors at Pagosa Springs Medical Center for their compassionate and dignified care in the last days of his life.
