Luther Dale Hensley's Obituary
Luther was born on January 22, 1940, in Twila, Kentucky. He was the youngest of eight children. After graduating from high school in Livingston, Kentucky, following his brother’s footsteps’ he enlisted in the United States Navy. He served for four years, stationed in Argentia, Newfoundland. During his time in the Navy, he studied naval law, which ignited his passion for justice and the law.
Following his military service, Luther made a successful career in law enforcement. He worked for the Utah Department of Corrections for 20 years and logged over 250,000 miles in transportation. After retiring, he continued working for the South Salt Lake Police Department, and the West Jordan Police Department, where he was involved with the evidence department. He also had the opportunity to work with the Utah Attorney General’s office developing lifelong friendships and cherishing the time spent there.
Luther had two children, Luther Dale (Dale) and Kathryn Elizabeth (Kathy), whom he adored. He later married Susan, who had two children Pamela and Travis, to whom he also adored. Luther had a special bond with his two sons-in-law, Kevin and Robert, and cherished his four granddaughters and 3 great grandchildren. He found great joy in his beloved West Highland Terrier, Gabby, whom he looked forward to seeing every day after work.
An adventurer at heart, Luther loved the outdoors and enjoyed activities such as golf, mountain biking and riding his Harley. Riding his Harley-Davidson with his son Dale, was one of his greatest passions. He also enjoyed the time he spent playing golf with his daughter Kathy. He and Susan also cherished their time together on road trips and exploring new places, as she was his best friend.
Luther took great pride in his service in the U.S. Navy and shared a bond with his fellow veteran’s. He had a zest for life, a wonderful sense of humor, and made everyone around him feel appreciated. Luther built lasting friendships throughout his career and was grateful for the support and camaraderie of his Chief of Police, Nate Mutter, at the Attorney General’s office , as well as his close friends and co-workers, Kevin Pepper and Mike Schwemmer.
The family extends their gratitude to the Intermountain Health Center Heart and Lung Center for the exceptional care provided by the doctors and nurses who attended to Luther. They also thanked Dr.West and his associates at The Orthopedic Specialty Hospital for performing Luther’s hip replacement and providing him with relief.
Luther his survived by his wife Susan, his sister Phyllis, his children, Dale (Kevin), Kathy, Pamela (Robert), Travis, four grandchildren, three great grandchildren and his beloved Westie, Gabby.
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