Jack M. Jenkins, 89, passed away on July 3, 2016, from complications of dementia with his family at his side. A lifelong resident of Massillon, Ohio, Jack married Germaine Ann Maier in 1949, and together they had nine children, 22 grandchildren, and 29 great grandchildren. A man of integrity who quietly helped many people, Jack was deeply loved and respected by his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.

Jack was preceded in death by his father and mother, Frank R. and Kathleen Jenkins, and 13 of his 14 brothers and sisters. He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife, Germaine (Gerry) and their children: Marybeth and Glenn Wilkinson; Larry and Roberta (Lepping) Jenkins; Kathleen and Andrew Rosenberg; John Jenkins; Dennis and Barbara (Hardy) Jenkins; Patricia Buttermore and Tim Caillet; Bonita and John Hauser; Margaret and Barry Olszewski; Martin and Julie (Martin) Jenkins.

Being one of 15 children, Jack grew up in humble surroundings and understood hunger first hand. He did his part to help his mother and siblings survive in economically destitute times. He attended Richville Elementary, Longfellow Junior High, and Washington High School, studying with the class of 1944. Dropping out of school to join the military, Jack served in the South Pacific Theater for the U.S. Army, Americal, Infantry Division, from October 1944 to November 1946. He was honorably discharged as an E-4 Corporal. Jack loved his country and understood first hand our freedom was never and will never be free. He returned to high school after his service and graduated with the class of 1947.
Starting full time work at the age of 16, Jack worked at Republic Steel and M.C.A. Signs before his employment at E.W. Bliss in 1951. A self-taught engineer, who worked hard to educate himself and create a secure life for his family, he left the industrial engineering department to join Babcock and Wilcox in 1968. Jack retired as a manufacturing engineer in 1983 when B&W closed the Canton Plant.

Working with his hands, especially outside, was Jack's favorite way to relax and no job was too big. He was a master at breaking a job into small pieces and then working at a steady pace to complete every task. With the help of a brother in the 1950s, Jack cleared many acres of land to prepare a site for a new home he built for his growing family.
Music was important in Jack's home and singing a great opportunity to relax. A member of St. Mary's Church, he sang for over 30 years in their men's choir. He was also a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus.
Studying history, fixing and refinishing just about anything he could find, and traveling were three of his hobbies. A member of the Massillon Museum, he enjoyed the History Group and Brown Bag Luncheons for many years. He attended local auctions whenever possible. Traveling with his wife and family, they covered the 48 continental states by automobile.
Being a man of few words, he made the ones he used count. Actions were the tools he used to teach. He was quick to forgive and used extreme caution before judging anyone. He taught his children the importance of being humble and honest, to work hard and be independent, to take care of themselves and their families, to show others respect and love, to help others in need, and to always forgive. Jack lived an honorable and humble life. His family is proud to have called him husband, dad, and grandpa.
There will be no calling hours. A private graveside service was   held for Jack's intimate family.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held by Reverend Ed Gretchko Pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church will be held at St. Paul's Church, 127 Cherry Rd NE, in Massillon on Thursday, July 14, 2016 at 11AM.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in the name of Jack M. Jenkins to;  Disabled American Veterans (DAV); PO Box14301; Cincinnati, Ohio 45250; 877-426-2838, Ext. 1340; www.dav.org, OR to  St. Mary's School, 640 First Street, N.E., Massillon, Ohio 44646.
Condolences to the family may be made here at this site.
HEITGER MASSILLON 330-833-3248