Arnold W. Jenks

Arnold W. Jenks 86, Wausau, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend and neighbor, died Thursday December 15, 2005 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. He was born August 19, 1919 in Wilmot, son of the late Earl Jenks and Edna Redlin. On August 2, 1947, he married Arliss E. Yeager in Rib Falls. She preceded him in death on September 5, 2005. Arnold led a fulfilling life in farming and carpentry in the Wausau area. His strengths and talents were shared with others. Arnold began his life in the farming community of Wilmot. He grew up in a large family with 12 brothers and sisters. He was only nine years old at the beginning of the depression, living on a farm near Forest Grove. After completing the eighth grade and upon the illness of his stepfather he had to take on responsibilities for the farm and family. During those busy years as a young adult, he enjoyed playing baseball and the love of baseball carried through the years. After his marriage to Arliss, he continued to farm with his father-in-law in the town of Maine. Throughout most of his life, he maintained two jobs; working as a carpenter for Martin Henning Construction and at home as a farmer. In addition to these demands, he enjoyed activities within the church including participation in the dart ball league. After retiring from farming in 1973 and moving to the city of Wausau, he began a second career in building with Wausau Homes. In retirement, he became an active member of the Monarch Lions Club. During his years as a member, he held positions as President, Vice-President, and Treasurer. He was very active in many areas of community service including mint sales, roadway cleanup, eyeglass collection and other fundraising. He was a recipient of the Melvin Jones Fellow Award for dedicated humanitarian services. His family will especially remember the pleasure he experienced during all their times together. He supported each of his children and grandchildren in whatever they chose to undertake. Arnold was a man of strength, honor, and commitment. His strong faith was shown in his work with others and within his church. He will be remembered as a member of Hill Toppers. He had a strong commitment to helping his friends and neighbors. His thoughts were always with the needs of others above his own. Among his many interests, he enjoyed woodworking, gardening, fishing and visiting. Many homes and businesses in Wausau have benefited from his talents. Anyone driving down Seventh Street will remember the friendly man sitting on the front porch. He had great interest in all of his friends and neighbors, enjoying sharing stories and a smile. All will miss him. Survivors include three children, Richard (Mary) Jenks, Mukwonago, Mary (John) Grossmeier, Hannibal, Mo, and Larry (Vicky) Jenks, Schofield; seven grandchildren, Kate Jenks, Amherst, Mass., Christopher Jenks, Mukwonago, Sarah Grossmeier, Kansas City, Mo., Gregory Grossmeier, Minneapolis, Minn., and Krista, Kesa, Kortney Jenks, Schofield. Surviving brothers include Harry Jennejohn, Harold Jennejohn (Mary) and Henry Jennejohn (Elsie). Surviving sisters include Leona Marotz (Melvin), Elsie Eisenman, Jeanette Kohlbeck, Pearl McCrary, and Anita Kies (Lee). Brothers Frank Jenks and Martin Jennejohn preceded him in death. Funeral Services will be 11:00a.m Saturday, December 24, 2005 at Wesley United Methodist Church, Wausau. Rev Sam Royappa will officiate. Private internment will be at Pine Grove Cemetery, Wausau. Friends may call Friday December 23, 2005 from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau and again on Saturday from 10:00 am until time of service at church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Wesley United Methodist Church in Memory of Arnold W Jenks. Online condolences at www.petersonkramer.com