Charles Hensley

Charles David "Chuck" Hensley of Martinez, Calif., died May 30, 2002, at the VA Hospital in Martinez following a battle with cancer.

Hensley was born Dec. 11, 1950, in Cape Girardeau. He graduated from Illmo-Scott City High School in 1969. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army from 1972-80. He was a member of the First Cavalry, specializing in armored vehicles, explosives, and sharpshooting. He was awarded a Purple Heart.

After his discharge from the Army, Hensley stayed in Germany working for Big Bend Community College. He was also a member of the Keepers of the Light Motorcycle Club and the Vietnam Vets Motorcycle Club.

In 1993, he returned to the United States and became operations manager with Cal State Patrol, a security company in San Francisco. He was married to Kathy Herzog in 1975. She preceded him in death.

Survivors include his companion of 13 years, Karra Jones; his daughter, Candi Murphy of McClure, Ill., and grandchildren Joseph and Amber Murphy. He is also survived by his parents, Charles and Nina Hensley of Windemere, Lake of the Ozarks; a sister, Dianne Kile; and brothers, Dale and Michael.

A memorial service for family and friends will be held at Amick-Burnett in Scott City on Friday, June 14, 2002, at 2 p.m. Visitation is at 1 p.m. prior to services. Burial will follow later at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Gustine, CA.