Frank Henderson, the terminally ill Washington man whose story inspired thousands, passed away on Friday.
Henderson was diagnosed six weeks ago with advanced stage gallbladder cancer, and spent his final days in accelerated celebrations of the moments he would not live to see.
The 60-year-old and his family celebrated Christmas last month, and many of their neighbors decorated their houses in a display of solidarity. Henderson also took "wedding" photos with his 21-year-old daughter in a bridal gown, and "danced her into her future."
The Seattle Seahawks visited the long-time fan at his home, and Henderson spent as much time as possible with his wife, five children, and three grandchildren. After completing his bucket list, he wanted to go to the beach with his family.
"When we got to the end of our walk, a rainbow filled the sky right before our eyes — a sign of God's promise to us," his daughter, Thea, told TODAY.com.
When they returned home, the former commercial truck driver was ready to rest.
"He went to bed, and that's when everything went downhill so fast," said Thea.
Henderson was transported to Evergreen Hospice Center in Kirkland, and was "finally at peace" in his last hours. Thea announced her father's passing in a Facebook post on behalf of her family.
"We lost a great man today, the absolute best," she wrote. "At 4am this morning Dad passed away peacefully, surrounded by love.
"These last 6 weeks with him were truly incredible, and gave our family countless memories that we will cherish for the rest of our lives. His smile became a sign of hope for many, and a source of inspiration for people all over the world.
"Never did we imagine our beloved father would touch so many lives. But as it turns out, evident in the hundreds of Christmas cards we have received, the world found him to be just as special as we all knew he was.
"We cannot say thank you enough for all the support our family has received. From meals to Christmas cards and gifts to special visits and incredible community, family, friend, and 12 support, we are truly humbled and thankful for how you all have honored Dad's life."
