L.V. Denson Obituary (1922

L.V. "Red" Denson passed away on Sunday October 2 at the age of 95. Red was born on July 4th, 1922 in Whitesboro, TX to Viola and James David Denson. At the age of 12 Red's father suddenly died and just 2 years later a house fire left Red and his mother to rebuild their lives. These difficult years would mold the strong character that defined Red's entire life. Red was a graduate of Whitesboro High School and attended North Texas State College before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1941. In August of 1945, right after the wars end, Red went on 10 days leave to Washington DC and while there renewed his acquaintance with high school classmate Kathryn Varley. Red and Kathryn were married in March of 1946. A career Navy man, Red was one of the last special patriots who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. In his career he served on five ships and two submarines, including serving as "COB," Chief of the Boat, on the USS Halibut SSN-587. He retired from the Navy in 1975 after 34 years of service, concluding his Navy life as the first Master Chief of the Pacific Submarine Force. The walls of his Hansville, WA home are covered with plaques and certificates cataloguing his years of meritorious service. Upon retirement Red and Kathryn enjoyed a yearlong camper trip visiting friends in 48 different states. In 1976 they settled in Driftwood Key living in Jim and Wanda Karst's cabin while they began building their dream home looking over the Hood Canal. Red still resided there independently until the final days of his life. Red and Kathryn enjoyed an amazing 62 years together prior to Kathryn's passing in 2008. Red's was a "working retirement" as he continued to serve his community in many ways. He worked for several years on the Washington Board of Equalization, served as a board member and president of the Driftwood Key Homeowners Association, for 14 years served as a Fire Commissioner for the Hansville Fire Department, and most recently worked extensively with the Hansville Historical Society. On a Sunday morning he could be found in his favorite pew worshipping with the Hansville Community Church. Red was an accomplished man who positively influenced those around him. In the last years of his life he was physically less able to assist folks, yet he continued to offer engaging stories, wit, wisdom and insight to family and neighbors. In his most reflective moments he would express how proud he was of his children and their families. The legacy that he saw in each of them meant he could pass from this life fulfilling his destiny. Red is survived by his son David Denson, daughter Linda Coburn and husband Dan, grandchildren Christy Vartanian and husband Aris, Laura Belanger and husband Johny, Chad Denson, Danni Langston and husband Boone, and great-grandchildren Jake, Amelia, Jordyn and Charlie. Today our hearts celebrate that on Sunday morning October 2, 2017, Red became reunited with God, Kathryn, and all of his family and friends who have passed from this life. Fair winds and following seas Master Chief. Your watch stands relieved. We love you. Viewing at The Stone Chapel Poulsbo Mortuary- Friday October 13, 3--5 p.m. Saturday October 14, 2017 Graveside service 10:00 a.m. at the Hansville Cemetery "A Celebration of Life", 11:00 a.m., held at the Hansville Community Center, 6778 Buck Lake Park Rd The family request that any memorial donations be made to the Hansville Community Center.