Tom was a graduate of South High School where he was in R.O.T.C. for 3 ½ years. He attended Grand Rapids Junior College, worked briefly for Montgomery Ward, and worked for a few years as a draftsman for Haven-Busch. In March of 1972, he began working at Steelcase. He retired in 1999. It was the summer of 1963 when Tom met Vonna Olson. He was with a friend at the Dog-N-Suds on 28th Street when she pulled up in her father’s ‘54 Pontiac. Before long, they had their first date, a picnic at Dutton Park. They were engaged in the spring of 1964 and married on July 31 of that year.
Tom had many interests in life. He loved the music of the big band era and the Beach Boys. Many hours were spent listening to records and cassettes. He also took trumpet lessons for many years. Tom was an avid reader of history and loved anything concerning World War II. He read the Bible daily. His library was extensive, and books were always a treasured birthday gift. Tom was a big fan of Detroit sports, especially the Tigers. His stepfather, Harvey, took him many times to Tiger Stadium. He, in turn, took his family there often. The 1968 World Series team was always his favorite. Tom absolutely loved classic movies and television shows. This included everything from Boys Town and Key Largo to the Honeymooners and Perry Mason. Tom enjoyed having coffee with his sister, poker games with his brothers, and looked forward each year to the Christmas season and family gatherings. Family was very important to him. In retirement, Tom and Vonna spent time each year in Florida.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Reva Jenkins; stepfather, Harvey Veldman; brothers Ron, Bob, Larry, and Don Jenkins; and sister, Joan Palmer. Tom will be lovingly remembered by his best friend and beloved wife of 59 years, Vonna; children Jeff (Mary Kate) Jenkins and Rick (Jennifer) Jenkins; grandchildren Bianca Jenkins, Lukas Jenkins, and Micah Jenkins; brother, Bill (Susie) Jenkins; sister-in-law, Vicke (Doug) Boyle; many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will take place 10 a.m. Thursday, August 8, 2024 at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guest book online.
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