In Remembrance Of
Dr. Donald E. Jenks
Dr. Donald E. Jenks, 99, of Platte City, MO passed away, February 28, 2026.
He was born on September 10, 1926 to Henry and Velma (Elsas) Jenks in Dawn, MO. Donald grew up in Dawn, MO and Silverton, CO. He graduated from Dawn High School in 1944. He then served his country in the U.S. Navy during WWII.
On February 9, 1946 he was united in marriage to Mary Evelyn Watkins. After their marriage they moved to Kansas City where he received his undergraduate degree at Kansas City Community College. He then attended Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN where he received his Doctorate in Optometry. In 1954, they returned to Kansas City and in 1959 Donald opened his practice in Platte City. In 1992 they moved to Ashland, MO and he practiced Optometry in Columbia, MO until his retirement in 2022. His wife, Mary, preceded him in death on January 23, 2022.
Donald was involved in many civic organizations. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Platte City and served as Grand Master. He was a scout leader for the Boy Scout Troop 249 in Weston, and an honorary warrior and sachem for the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. He also served as a district governor of Rotary International and was a Paul Harris fellow.
He was also preceded in death by his parents, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Donald is survived by his children, Dr. Jerry (Nancy) Jenks, Lynne Warren (Joe), and Herbert (Melissa) Jenks; grandchildren, Ashley (Matt) Kolakowski, Jason (Heidi) Jenks, Golden Warren, Dr. Seth (Abby) Jenks, and Kole (Jiliyan) Jenks; great-grandchildren, Sayer and Grayson Riek, Elliston, Beckham, and Magnolia Grace Jenks, and Finley, Norah, and Weston Jenks; sister, Carol Marchant; other relatives and many friends.
A private family graveside service will be held for Donald and Mary at the Welsh Cemetery in Dawn, MO.
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11 comments
Connie Heard
Just seeing this. Our sympathy, Jerry/Nancy, and all of your family! Wow, sounds like he had a wonderful, long life. You are in our prayers. Roger & Connie
Pam and Skip Brown
Jason I’m so sorry for your loss, my grandfather was instrumental in shaping my life and grand parents play a special role in a family’s that no one else can. You and your family are in our prayers…….may peace and comfort embrace you all.
Crazy John Brooks
Hey Pops! I’m proud of you for bein so tough and patient while you live to be 99!!! OMG that’s amazing! I remember chattin at your place in Weston like it was yesterday. Thanks for your kind words whenever we have met. Mary too! My Aunt Winifred and Uncle Bob Dunshee love you both very much and I would imagine you four are already back together havin fun! I have been so blessed to have such a great friendship with Lynne and will continue to keep an eye out as she and Joe do their thing in Mexico. She is super happy you can tell. You and Mary are such a great Team! Please enjoy your new Adventure together like never before. Love, Craze
Melinda Perry
Sad to hear this news. I worked for them about 7 years and so grateful for their optical teachings starting my 46 years optical career. Thank you for your patience. Prayers for your family during this difficult time. Cherish your wonderful memories.
Bruce Marchant
My deepest condolences. I have fond memories of uncle Don and Aunt Mary, spending a summer with them on the farm. He was kind and generous., a role model for me and an example for us all..
Bruce Marchant
Kathy Hof
So sorry to hear of your Dads passing. Ninety nine, that is a long prosperous life . May he rest in peace. He & Mary are united !
Kelly Gattshall
Lynne, your father sounded like an amazing man. He lived a long life along side your mother.
To the family I’m sorry for your loss.
Kelly (friend of Lynne’s)
Dr Seth Jenks
Grandpa Jenks, I know you are with the Lord and with Grandma eating ice cream! Rest well! Love, Seth
Margie gallo
Dr Jenks so sorry for your loss thinking of you and your family 😌
Juanita Farr
So very sorry to hear this.sending Prayers and Hugs to the family.
Dr. Donald Jenks was my Optometrist for years evey since I was very young.
Always greeted with big smile from Mary and Dr. Jenks always took such good care of my eyes. Such good memories. Will be missed.
Bill and JoKaren Brown
Our sincere condolences…to all the JENKS FAMILY.