Lew Jenkins

Lew Jenkins, 94, passed away on October 22, 2021, at the Bridges at Ankeny surrounded by his loving family. He was born on a farm near Blockton, Iowa on August 11, 1927, the son of Reed and Daisy (Aldrich) Jenkins.

In 1935, the family moved to St. Joseph, Missouri, before making Des Moines their home in 1942. Lew graduated from East High School and served in the United States Navy for 28 months. In 1952, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth “Bunny” Medici.

Lew’s greatest passion was auto racing, a hobby he actively participated in from 1948-1958. In 1950, he broke his neck and back, but that did not keep him from racing. In 1953, Lew was recognized as the Des Moines Track Champion. In addition to obtaining a pilot’s license, Lew worked in auto parts sales and retired in 1993.

Lew was a member of VFW Post 9662, American Legion Post 374, and the Rusty Zipper Club.

Lew is survived by his children, LuAnne (Jim) Longo, Greg (Jan) Jenkins, and John (Megan) Jenkins; grandchildren, Hilary (Drew) Presler, James Longo, Jace Jenkins, Justin Jenkins, and Jake (Nicolette) Jenkins; great-grandchildren, Tucker, Milo, Link, Daxin, and Dreydin; as well as a host of other loving family and many special friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Reed and Daisy Jenkins; loving wife, Bunny; and his sister, Katie Holschuh.

A celebration of life will be held from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 20, 2021, at Boline-Manfredi VFW Post 9662, 1309 NE 66th Ave. in Des Moines. A private graveside service will be held at Iowa Veterans Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Boline-Manfredi VFW Post 9662 or Highland Park American Legion Post 374, in loving memory of Lew.

Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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