Obituary of Walter Jenkins

Walter Magee Jenkins1927-2012Walter Magee Jenkins 84, passed away peacefully from complications of a leg infection in Salem, OR on February 20, 2012 with his family by his side. Walt was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on July 22, 1927 to Walter and Eva Magee Jenkins, the fourth of six children. The family moved to southern California in his early childhood. They moved to Elmira, OR during his early teens where he attended Elmira High School.Walt met Evelyn Duncan in California a few years later while visiting family and friends. They were married in El Monte, CA on September 5, 1948 and remained devoted to each other until her death at age 56 on October 18, 1984. Throughout their married years they had eight children. They lived in multiple areas throughout California, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, New Mexico, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming until coming back to Elmira and settling on Falcon Drive.Walt began his career of truck driving in 1943 and basically continued down that road until his retirement in 1990. He also worked with his brothers and friend, Bud Pancake as a logger and carpenter.He was a hard worker. He was proud of the many miles traveled and long hours worked. He was an owner/operator log truck gyppo for International Paper. He drove over the road for Fred Holloman, Blackburn Trucking and Ross Equipment. In Utah, Walt drove truck for Acme Concrete. His last hourly job was operating an oversized UK for Delta Sand & Gravel.Family and friends were very important to Walt. He loved to share his interests and hobbies with them, which consisted of hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding and sports of all kinds. While traveling he was always searching for the next garage sale and good deal.Walt was a super fisherman who loved to fish. It didn't matter water, weather conditions or where, he was always ready to go. Walt went on multi "Once in a lifetime" trips to Alaska and Canada. The fish feared him. He won several fishing tournaments in Oregon and had some pretty good stories.His annual event was making enormous amounts of fresh apple juice for everyone. Walt was known as the “Apple Man” in St. Maries, Idaho and surrounding communities. The town of Harrison, Idaho gave him a key to the town, which gave Walt free rein to do, as he wanted. There was never a dull moment. Walt also sold bundles of firewood to surrounding campgrounds with the help of family and friends. He never met a stranger.In 1987, Walt married a true friend Jeannie Hartman. Later, they divorced but remained friends throughout the years.Walt was fortunate to find a very dear lady in 1991; Lucille Skinner who became his life companion and one his entire family adores. They continued to share his important hobbies for over 20 years. They loved having a good time.Walter is survived by his life companion Lou Skinner, five daughters, Ellen Swets (Roger) of Veneta, Elaine Koffler (Bruce) of Junction City, Ginger Wartenbee (Dwight) of Elmira, Donna Garner (David) of Veneta, Willie Wardian (John) of Meridian, ID. Two sons Walter Jenkins of Elmira and Allen Jenkins (Susan) of Veneta. Twenty-two grandchildren and thirty-four great grandchildren. Two sisters, Jerry Melville of Enterprise, OR, Darlene Wright of Portland, OR, three brothers, LeRoy Jenkins (Delores) of Elmira, Wardell Jenkins of Alpine, Wy, Elmer Jenkins (Marilyn) of Lakeside, CA, numerous nieces, nephews and many wonderful friends. David Hill of St. Maries, ID was like a son to him. Also, surviving him are Lou’s children, Robin Baerlocher (Dale) of St. Maries, ID, Andy Skinner (Terryl) of Spokane Valley, WA, and Bobby Skinner (Kelly) of St. Maries, ID and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Proceeded in death by his wife, Evelyn, one daughter, Doris Small passed away in 1980, and his parents.Walt will be greatly missed by many friends and family. He will be remembered as a jokester, colorful b-s-er, fun-loving, good man. Thanks, Walt for the bumpy adventurous wild ride. Along the many roads traveled, it's amazing how one’s life touches so many, sharing joy, laughter, healing, comfort and peace.Viewing: Thursday evening March 8, 2012 from 4-6 p.m. Visitation: Closed casket from 6-7 p.m. at West Lawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 225 S. Danebo, Eugene, OR Friday's Grand Celebration of Life will be held March 9, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Fern Ridge Christian Church 24918 Warthen Rd., Elmira, OR (formally Elmira Church of Christ), followed by a luncheon reception. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery, 88558 Oak Hill Cemetery Rd., Eugene, OR at 3:00 p.m.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to an organization or church of your choice in Walt's honor. Arrangements by Murphy-Musgrove Funeral Home 480 W 7th St. Junction City, OR 97448 Telephone: 541-998-2152 Website: www.musgroves.com