CONCORD - J. Paul Shenk was born in 1931 in Harrisonburg, VA, into a close-knit Mennonite community. He died, after suffering a stroke, in Concord, NH on August 16, 2017 at age 86. Paul lived for many years in Laconia and two years in Concord. His life was shaped by a commitment to learning, service, and faith.
After graduating from Eastern Mennonite University, he and first wife Anna Shenk were sent by the Mennonite Central Committee to conduct service work with Palestinian refugees in Jordan. Upon his return to the United States, he began graduate studies in philosophy at Boston University, earning his doctorate in 1971. He was professor at Belknap College in Center Harbor, NH, where he also served as president of the faculty. Over the course of his academic career he also taught at the University of New Hampshire and Southern New Hampshire University.
Paul worked for many years coordinating the Meals on Wheels program and transportation services for elders in both Laconia and Concord. He was a long-time member of the United Church of Christ in Laconia and was a faithful participant in the life of the wider church, including the Merrimack Association and the New Hampshire Conference. Paul was particularly concerned with peace and justice issues and was a strong supporter and advocate for the Israeli – Palestinian peace movement, inspiring others through his passion. In 1987, he married Vera Linney Harris, who shared his commitment to advocating for a just peace solution in Israel-Palestine. In 1996, they were awarded the Church Award in recognition of their 20 years of service to the church and its ministries. Vera Shenk passed away in 1997.
Paul enthusiastically embraced the opportunities for motorcycling, kayaking, hiking and snowshoeing in his home state. He was known and beloved for his kindness, gentleness, and wry sense of humor.
Paul is survived by his son, Eugene Shenk and wife Daylanne; his step-sons, Frederick Harris and wife Sandy, and Richard Harris; his step-daughters Patricia Williams and husband David, Diane Owen and husband Paul, and Ellen Lemire; former step-son-in-law Kevin Lemire; one brother, James Shenk and wife Eileen; and two sisters, Ellen Shenk and husband Philip Neufeld, and Virginia Ann Shenk. In addition to his parents, Paul was predeceased by his two wives, Anna Shenk and Vera (Linney) Shenk, and one daughter, Anita Shenk.
There will be no calling hours. Burial will be private.
A Celebration of Paul’s Life will be held at 2PM on Saturday, September 30, 2017 the Congregational Church of Laconia, 69 Pleasant Street, Laconia.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Congregational Church of Laconia, UCC, Dorcas Fund, 18 Veterans Sq., Laconia, NH 03246.
Wilkenson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH is assisting the family with the arrangements.