Lynne D. Jenks, age 93, died Wednesday, February 15th, 2012 in Anderson in his home. Lynne was the youngest of 3 sons born to parents Albert and Elizabeth Jenks in 1918 of Dixon, Illinois.
As a Serviceman in the U.S. Army during WWII, he was awarded the Purple Heart while wounded in the Battle of the Bulge. After the war, during his employment with Capitol Records, he acquired friendships with several noted musicians, including Harry Belafonte, The Four Freshmen, and Stan Kenton and his Orchestra. He married the former Doris Evelyn Tyler, and later worked as manager for Lewis Randle and Associates in Indianapolis.
A lifelong resident of Anderson, he was a “people person”, and was a good listener. His passions were listening to music of all kinds, playing piano, his pet dogs, furniture restoration, watching his son golf, and playing catch with his grandson “Cort”. He was devoted to his Church, the First Church of Christ, Scientist and served as a Reader for several years.
One of his most memorable childhood experiences was when former President Ronald Reagan (a lifeguard) rescued him from drowning in Lowell Park in Dixon. Lynne always expressed a heartfelt appreciation to Dr. C. William Hanke, a world renowned dermatologist who ultimately saved his life 30 years ago. During Lynne and Doris’s last few months together, he was her main caregiver, which required all the strength and faith he could muster. His wife of over 60 years, Doris passed on September 28, 2011.
Survivors include daughter, April “Pril” C. Jenks, son James L. Jenks (fiancée’ Becky Sharpe), grandson Courtney H. Kirchgessner, two granddaughters, Mary Jenks Nicholson (husband Lloyd), and Natalie Jenks; two great-grandchildren, Lucy Ann Nicholson and Lloyd “Beau” Nicholson IV. sisters-in-law, Anita Tyler, Ruth Anne Bolton, Violet “Mae” Tyler; brother-in-law, David Tyler; nephew Al (wife Bobby) Jenks of San Diego, several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by wife Doris, older brothers, Albert and Larry; brothers-in-law William Tyler and Merlin Tyler, and sister-in-law Marilyn Tyler. Lynne Jenks was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who will never be forgotten.
A celebration of life will be held for Lynne and Doris Jenks Friday, March 9 at 11:30am at St. Mathews Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Mathew Methodist Church or the Anderson Animal Care & Control.
Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service handled the arrangements.