Karla Henderson

Karla Henderson

1952 – 2026

HOLSTEIN - Karla Johnson Henderson, 73, passed away peacefully at her home in Holstein on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026 surrounded by loved ones from complications due to dementia. The Nicklas D. Jensen Funeral Home of Holstein is in charge of the arrangements.

Karla met the love of her life, Dennis K. Henderson, 55 years ago on Oct. 3, 1971 while attending Simpson College in Indianola, IA. They married the following year on Dec. 16, 1972. Karla received a degree in Biology/Chemistry. She then attended St. Luke’s Hospital School of Medical Technology for a year to be a Medical Technologist (laboratory) in Cedar Rapids, IA. Following her ten years at various hospitals, she changed her career to law. She held positions as Assistant Linn County Attorney, Assistant Iowa Attorney General, private practice, and retired as the Ida County Judicial Magistrate.

Free time was spent earning three Tae Kwon Do black belts, fishing, attending her children and grandchildren’s sporting events, and traveling with Dennis all while growing her faith in Jesus. Her six grandchildren gave her so much joy as she watched them enter adulthood.

Karla was preceded in death by her parents Carl and Louise Johnson of Cedar Rapids, IA.

She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, nine months, and eight days, Dennis K. Henderson; son Todd and wife Sarah (Kuhn) Henderson of Urbandale, IA; daughter Kristine and Dan Droegmiller, formerly of Holstein; and six grandchildren: Cloe and Jaden Droegmiller, Benjamin and Cameron Spina, Aiden and Ainsley Henderson; brother, Mark and Karen Johnson of Cedar Rapids, IA; and her rescue Husky, Blue.

There will be a private family burial after her grandson returns from his Middle East deployment.

Online condolences can be made at nicklasdjensenfh.com