Bernie Jenkins (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Bernie Jenkins, age 77, of Bolivar, Missouri, departed this life early Saturday morning, April 21, 2012 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.
Bernie Harlan Jenkins was born on June 10, 1934 in Espanola, New Mexico, the son of Perry Jenkins and Georgia (Blevins) Jenkins. Bernie’s Aunt and Uncle, Bess Schuler and Irvin Schuler, raised him from a young age.
Bernie enlisted into the United States Army and served during the Korean Conflict. He then earned his Bachelors in Zoology and went to work for the United States Forest Service. He retired from the United States Forest Service where he worked up to the position of Regional Director of personnel. After retirement he spent more time casting a line, fishing was his passion; he could never get enough of it. He also enjoyed cheering on his favorite football team, the Green Bay Packers, or watching basketball. He was known for his spectacular rose garden, consisting of over one hundred rose bushes of various types. On days that did not permit outside play, Bernie enjoyed reading. Bernie had a fierce type of loyalty and compassion for his family. His straight forward, no nonsense type of communication meant that good or bad, you always knew where you stood with him. Most importantly, Bernie knew and loved the Lord; he was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bolivar, Missouri.
He is preceded in death by his mother and father, and his aunt and uncle that raised him; Bess and Irvin Schuler.
He is survived by his wife; Cathie Jenkins of the home, daughter; Shelly Jenkins, son; Scott Jenkins and his wife Jettie, twin daughters; Melanie Perry and her husband John, Holly Schafer and her husband Craig, sister; Arliss Henderson, 10 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, 5 nieces and 1 nephew that will all miss Bernie so very much.
What’s your fondest memory of Bernie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bernie?
Share a story where Bernie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bernie you’ll never forget.
How did Bernie make you smile?