Carlos L. Jenkins

Carlos L. Jenkins, 92, of Machesney Park, Illinois, passed away peacefully in his home on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Carlos was born October 15, 1932, in Fennimore, Wisconsin, to Edgar and Elma Jenkins. Carlos was the eldest of eight children, raised in Highland, Wisconsin, where he also attended high school. Soon after, he enlisted in the United States Army in 1953 and faithfully served his country. On September 20, 1958, Carlos married Judith “Judy” Schoknecht, and they spent 64 wonderful years together before her passing in 2022. In 1958, Carlos began his 30 plus year career with J.C. Penny’s as their building manager. To simply put it, Carlos was a hardworking man and made sure his family was well taken care of. When the weather allowed it, he enjoyed fishing every Monday with his brother Russ. He also had the tradition of Poker Nights on Saturday. Carlos and Judy both were members of the Loves Park VFW Post 9759 and enjoyed their time there. He enjoyed going camping, and was always rooting for the Green Bay Packers.

Carlos was a man of his faith and was a devout member of St. Bridget Catholic Church of Loves Park, Illinois. His faith led him to his love for volunteering and lending a hand to anyone in need.

He is survived by his children, Michael (Jill) Jenkins, John (Dona) Jenkins, Dan (Crystal) Jenkins, and Kristine (Mike) Murphy; son-in-law, William Hevrin; 15 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren; siblings, Marilyn (Roger), Mary, Fritz, and Doug; sister-in-law, Bonnie Jenkins; many sisters and brothers-in-law from Judy; many nieces and nephews.

Carlos was preceded in death by his wife, Judy; daughter, Patricia Hevrin; parents, Edgar and Elma; siblings, Gordy (Beverly), Rita (Kenrick), and Russell.

The family would like to thank Crystal for her unwavering care, support, and dedication to Carlos, as well as OSF Hospice for all they did for Carlos, and for us as a family.

A visitation for Carlos will begin at 10:00 AM on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church, before Mass led by Monsignor Knox at 11:00 AM. He will be inurned at Sunset Memorial Gardens following services and joined by the Loves Park VFW Post 9759 for full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to donate in Carlos’s honor to St. Jude’s.