Gene M. Jenkins

Gene M. Jenkins, 95, died peacefully on February 13, 2017. He was a kind and gentle man who took great pride in his family. Gene was born to James and Verna Jenkins on September 27, 1921 in Conway Springs, Kansas and had a 43-year career in banking with Union National Bank and Commerce Bank in Wichita. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather and he loved sports and “big band” music. As a teenager he played the saxophone and clarinet in various dance bands and later during WWII he played for USO orchestras while stationed in North Africa with the US Army Air Corp. He also played in various local dance bands for many years. He was preceded in death by his father, James Jenkins, and mother, Verna Jenkins. Gene is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Rita Jenkins; sons, Robert Jenkins (Nancy), Douglas Jenkins (Ann), Thomas Jenkins (Debbie); and daughter, Patricia Begley (Brian); along with 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation for the compassionate care provided by the Catholic Care Center in Bel Aire and Good Shepherd Hospice of Wichita. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established at the Kansas Food Bank, 1919 E Douglas, Wichita, Kansas, 67211; and Catholic Charities, 437 N Topeka, Wichita, Kansas 67202. There will be a private service for the family. Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.