Richard E. "Dick" Jenks

Dick Jenks, age 86, died January 20, 2026, at Heritage Woods Assisted Living, Noblesville, Indiana. Dick was born August 17, 1939, to the late Roy and Esther Jenks in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was the fourth of six boys.

Dick worked hard his entire life to first provide for his education, then his family. He graduated from St. Thomas University and the University of Minnesota with a master's degree. Dick taught in California as well as Minneapolis, Minnesota before moving to Marion where he taught English, Latin, Etymology and Journalism at Eastbrook High School. In addition to teaching, he also coached the Eastbrook golf team. 

Dick loved sports, especially the Minnesota Vikings. He was the YMCA racquetball champion, an avid golfer and loved playing cards. At one time he and all of his brothers were on the same softball team. What a lineup! He was active with his children's sports coaching most of their teams. Dick was also an avid reader. He loved books!

Dick also enjoyed holding court at the round table with his buddies at Don's Tap, talking, discussing and arguing about various things.  He also enjoyed remodeling houses during the summer with his good friend Hobe Schacht.

Dick is survived by his children: Beau (Riva Bove) Jenks and Lora (Tracy) West, brothers: Lenny, Guy and Jim Jenks, eleven grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, as well as his former wife, mother of his children and good friend, Sally Jenks.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Tom and Roy Jenks, grandson Ritchie Easton and brother-in-law and close friend, Jason Orr.

Visitation for family and friends will be Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM at Raven Choate Robinson Funeral Home, 1202 W Kem Road, Marion, Indiana 46952. A Celebration of Life will begin at 6:00 PM with Father Ted Rothrock officiating. 

Condolences may be shared at www.ravenchoate.com.