| Graduation Year | Class of 1941 |
| Date of Passing | Apr 14, 2013 |
| About | Donald W. Jenkins, age 89, died peacefully on April 14, 2013 at Genesis, Good Samaritan Hospital Campus. He was born October 10,1923 at "home in the valley" in White Cottage, Ohio to Charles Henry Jenkins and Grace Harsch Jenkins, and was one of ten children, (two sisters died in infancy). He has one surviving brother, Richard E. (Joyce) Jenkins and was preceded in death by John Henry (Freda) Jenkins, Paul E. (Violet) Jenkins, Sarah Frances Jenkins Brown (Don), George W. Jenkins and Robert L. (Sue) Jenkins. Donald graduated from Zanesville High School in 1941, and entered the Army Air Force January 16, 1942, where he served as an aircraft engine mechanic, having graduated from Embry Riddle School of Aviation in June 1943. Donald was a carpenter by trade and worked with his brothers until he was elected Business Representative of the Carpenters Union Apr.1,1956, a job he held until July 19,1985 (29 years). He was very proud of the home he "built with his own hands." He was a member of the carpenter's union for over 50 years. He was also active in many civic organizations. He married Berniece L. Wagner December 10, 1945 and had five children. He was pre-deceased by his wife who died September 4, 1972, and three children, (a daughter died in infancy), Michael L. Jenkins (2001), and Debra S. Jenkins Caw (1997). From that marriage, he is survived by Diane Jenkins Vincent and Timothy D. Jenkins; as well as three granddaughters, Bonita Gerber (John), Lodema Dunaway and Mary Jane Vincent, six great-granddaughters and one great-grandson. On October 19, 1973, he married Wanda Juanita Walsh who died February 22, 2010. From this marriage, Donald is survived by his step-children, Judy Wofter, Jack Erwine, Teresa Arnold and Mike Hamill; four granddaughters, Sally Ogg (Rob), Shelly Fellers, Kristie Zemba, Harmony Hamill, and three grandsons, Brian Reed, Larry Reed, and Jay Arnold. He was proceeded in death by a grandson, Matthew Erwine. Donald was a member of the American Legion Post #726 in East Fultonham for 45 years, was a past Commander and served as their financial officer for more than 20 years. Donald took great pride in the fact that as financial officer, he was "never a penny off" and served the Legion until his stroke eight years ago. He was also a member of the Maysville School Board for many years and served as president when his children were in school. Donald and his first wife, Berniece, were one of the founding couples instrumental in the development of Starlight School, and over many years he served Starlight School in any capacity that he could. Donald was very active in many civil and community organizations. He was also a member of the Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Ohio, and the Amrou Grotto. During his retirement years, Don enjoyed traveling to historical American battlegrounds (revolutionary and civil wars) with his step-son, Jack Erwine, who took Donald twice monthly to the American Legion to play Euchre with his friends. When the trip became too much for Donald, his friends from the Legion traveled to meet Jack and Don. Our special thanks to Ben Kirkbride, Donita Huff, and Garnet Hampp, the traveling card players, and to all the Legion members who were so gracious and kind to Donald during those times. At Donald's request, in lieu of flowers please send a donation to Starlight School or the charity of your choice in his memory. Friends may call from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, 2013 at William Thompson & Son Funeral Home in White Cottage and one hour prior to the service which will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 17, 2013. Rev. Bill Koppert officiating. Masonic Lodge #368 will conduct services at the funeral home at 8:00 p.m. Tuesday. Burial will be in Wesley Union Cemetery. |
