Henry Monroe Childers, 90, of Council Bluffs

Henry Monroe Childers, 90, of Council Bluffs, formerly of Red Oak, died Friday, Nov. 21, 2008, at Bethany Lutheran Home in Council Bluffs after an extended illness.

Known to many as “Hank,” “Sarge,” or “Chilly,” he was born Aug. 12, 1918, in Kansas City, Mo., to Henry Martin and Grace (Liffey) Childers.

He spent his childhood in Hastings, Neb., and attended school there.

Henry worked for Schilling Oil Co., the railroad, and served in  both the Nebraska and Iowa National Guards.

Henry was united in marriage to Jean Allgood and to this union was born a son, Robert.

He was later united in marriage to Jean Wood, and to this union were born two sons, John and Rick.

“Sarge” had a long career with the National Guard, serving in World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

He received the bronze star and other honors before retiring as a master sargeant in 1978.

Following retirement, he enjoyed traveling, spending time with family and volunteering at the Red Oak Armory.

Hank was a member of the American Legion, VFW, Red Oak Eagles Aerie and the Montgomery County Memorial Court of Honor. 

He moved to the Amelia House Assisted Living in Council Bluffs in 2000 and Bethany Lutheran Home in 2007.

He was preceded in death by his parents;  brother, Thomas; and sister, Naomi Walker.

Survivors include his children, Robert (Debborah) Childers of Coburn, Va., John (Ann) Childers of Red Oak, Rick (Dawna) Childers of Council Bluffs, Jerry (Lori) Good of Phoenix, Ariz., and Ronald (Sue) Wood of Council Bluffs; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives. 

Visitation preceded the funeral services Nov. 25 at Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel in Red Oak.

Memorials are suggested to the Court of Honor, First Baptist Church, or Bethany Lutheran Home.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements.