Frederick “Skitch” J. Henderson

Frederick “Skitch” J. Henderson, 88, former longtime resident of Merrimack, NH died Saturday January 10, 2026, after a brief illness.

He was born in Colon, Panama on May 27, 1937, the son of the late Robert G. and Mae (Hodges) Henderson.

Skitch was a US Army Veteran in the 101st Airborne Division and completed over 200 jumps during his service. He served more than 25 years during the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. He retired at the rank of Master Sargeant.

In addition to his parents, he was pre-deceased by his wife Pauline G. Henderson in 2014 and his stepson Robert Catudal in 2006.

Members of his surviving family include his sister, Shirley Henderson Krampitz; his three children, Tammy Henderson, Jill Henderson, John Henderson, and two stepchildren Suzanne Foote and Richard (Rick) Catudal. Skitch was blessed with an abundant number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Skitch was an avid lover of golf. His time playing golf with his stepson was greatly treasured. He read every issue of his Golf magazine from front to back, collected autographs of famous golfers, and was proud of his “collectable” coins and hats. It was a common topic of conversation, often accompanied by many smiles and laughter.

Skitch was such a social butterfly and would give the shirt off his back for anyone that he cared for. He made many friends with both the residents and staff at Crestwood Nursing Home where he grew his own “family” of friends. Skitch started a Veterans Group at Crestwood that grew in attendance each week. Of course, he was also known for his annual appearance as Santa! His last appearance as Santa was with a twist. For Halloween 2025 he wore the suit with a Grinch mask! He didn’t fool anyone. He was too sweet to be a Grinch. He was up for a party for all holidays. Trips to Walmart and to the Casino were times out he looked forward to as well.

He enjoyed his time with his buddies at the VFW and the Legion Post 98, which he was extremely proud to be a longtime member of. He spoke frequently of his friends from the Legion. The Legion was where he felt at home with those that he had common experiences with.

Chrissy Simonds played a large role in his life by providing him with support and companionship. Ginger Belanger’s friendship with Skitch quickly evolved to that more like a grandfather and granddaughter. They face-timed daily and she visited often. He always shared stories of his incredible life with her, in hopes to teach lessons, entertain, or encourage a little chuckle.

There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Our Lady of Mercy Church, 16 Baboosic Lake Rd, Merrimack on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 9:30am. Burial with Military Honors will be held at the NH Veterans Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway, Boscawen, NH at 12 Noon.

In lieu of flowers, Skitch asked that donations be made to the American Legion Post 98, 43 Baboosic Lake Road, Merrimack NH 03054

Kindly visit rivetfuneralhome.com to leave an online condolence for the family.