William Michael (Mike) Henderson

A FORMER commodore of the Island Sailing Club, William Michael (Mike) Henderson, has died, aged 85.
Mr Henderson, of Westhill Road, Cowes, was born in London, on August 26, 1924.
He moved to the Island in 1956 and soon designed what became the Henderson marine pump, a device used to pump water out of yachts.
The product is known today as the Whale pump, after it was taken over by Munster Simms Engineering.
Mr Henderson set up a factory in Sun Hill, Cowes, and went on to develop other concepts, including a water-tight locker door used on lifeboats.
He also designed two catamarans during the 1960s.
Mr Henderson joined the Island Sailing Club in 1957 and was commodore for three years from 1974.
He was a founder member of the Junior Offshore Group and was also a member of the Royal London Yacht Club.
Away from sailing, Mr Henderson was keen on shooting and fishing.
He leaves his son, Joe, stepson, Steven, and two grandchildren.
A funeral was due to be held today (Friday) at the Isle of Wight Crematorium, Whippingham, at 10.30am.

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