Leonard Jenkins
September 20, 1943 - May 21, 2023
It is with profound sadness that the family of Leonard Jenkins announce his passing on May 21st, 2023 at the age of 79 after a short battle with cancer.
Len will be forever remembered by his wife of 53 years, Elaine of Sandy, UT; daughter Meagen (Jeff) Wilson, son Joshua (Candi) Jenkins, daughter Adrienne (Seth) Harris; grandchildren Dustin, Noah, Samuel, Ethan, Emilia and Evan; and sister Linda Madon.
Len was preceded in death by his parents Edwin and Eleanor Jenkins and brother John Jenkins.
Len was born in Detroit, MI and was a 1961 graduate of DeVilbiss High School in Toledo, Ohio. He attended the University of Toledo. He was a percussionist with the DeVilbiss HS Band, University of Toledo Band, Toledo Summer Concert Band, Toledo Opera Association Orchestra, Toledo Symphony Orchestra and the Toledo Ballet Orchestra. He took great pride in having the privilege of working with icons Philip Glass, Glenn Gould, Benny Goodman and Itzak Perlman. His experiences with Conductors Seiji Ozawa, Serge Fournier and Joseph Hawthorne left him with impactful memories.
Len and his brother John ran The Tropics Lounge in Toledo after their fathers passing. Len was later the Proprietor of restaurant Cap’t Billys Whizz Bang in Toledo, OH and Director of Food Service at Coca-Cola during the Salt Lake City Olympics. Though the job that brought him the most fulfillment and pride was his position as an Employment Counselor for the State of UT. The ability to bring hope, encouragement and success to those struggling to find work was incredibly rewarding and he continued to practice this coaching informally throughout his hospital stays, to any CNA or RN who would listen.
Len was an avid car enthusiast, loved to talk Porsche, and was an amateur racecar driver in his youth. Len was devoted to and proud of his family, most especially his grandchildren. Len was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and former President of the NW Ohio Restaurant Association, with published recipes. He liked to call himself a foodie but truly was a traditionalist. He loved cooking for his family and church events. Specialties included meat, meat and more meat. Plus salt.
Stories, music, drinks and hors d’ouvres will be offered on May 30, 2023 from 6-8 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East Millcreek. A Funeral Mass to honor this life well-lived will be celebrated on May 31, 2023 at 11 AM at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 9757 South 1700 East, Sandy.
We wish to personally thank Cardiologist Dr. Scott Hacking MD, who was an integral part of our “Dream Team” during Len’s 41-day hospitalization with COVID in 2021. Dr Hacking continued to take chances on him in order to offer a best possible life. He provided hope and gave us almost two additional years together. Our deepest gratitude.
Memorial donations may be made in Len’s name to Fisher House Salt Lake City by clicking the DONATE link above. Len held a great reverence for our veterans.
In Loving Memory
I am still shaken by Lenny's passing. I am happy you have a large family to be there for you. Take care of yourself. Your spiritual strength will help you now. Many blessings Joanne
Ohh so sorry to hear this. We worked together at Community Action Program in the HEAT Program. I loved taking with him. It was a joy working with him. I've been thinking of him alot lattley and was telling myself to contact him to see how the family is doing. I guess I should have listened to myself. He was always talking about his family and he adored his wife. When he talked about her he would would light up. Sorry for your loss.
Lenny was an honorable gentleman and wonderful boss. I loved working for/with him (and Linda) at Captain Billy's Wizz Bang (CBWB) as a bartender in the 1980's. We were all treated exceptionally well - with honor, fairness, respect, and unwavering human kindness. Sending warm heartfelt condolences to his family. 2 Corinthians 5:8 One of the many fond and funny memories... On a weekend night, I was tending bar at CBWB when an customer came in (already intoxicated) and sat in the lounge. That very day, Lenny shaved his beard for the 1st time in MANY years (big shock to everyone) and he came into the restaurant on his night off. Seeing I was trying to ignore the drunk patron, Lenny casually sat next to that patron at the bar. While the two gentlemen struck-up small-talk, I declined to serve the intoxicated patron who became upset and loudly slurred, "You can't do this - I know the owner - Lonny!" Lenny identified himself and graciously calmed the patron. RIP Lonny :-)
Len, You'll be missed. It was great working with you. May the Lord shines his light on you forever.
My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Len and his wonderful family. I met them in Tempe, Arizona as an angst filled college freshman and for the next four years they treated me like family. Full use of the pool on all those hot days....Len told me not to bother knocking or even feel like I had to let them know. Instead, he got a big kick out of me dropping my bicycle in his driveway (where of course there was always a car he and Josh were working on), and diving into the pool while the dogs barked. We spoke deeply about our shared love for music and I took great pride in his acceptance of me as a musician and a person. He will be deeply missed but his life deserves to be celebrated. He was a great guy and the patriarch of an amazing family. May he rest in eternal peace ~ Theo
He fought a good fight. Truly a testament of the inner strength he had. Len will be remembered with love, and respect. I remember how proud and happy he was watching people enjoy his meals at bingo night and parish events. Always happy, with a big smile and eager to share stories of the old days. Rest in peace dear friend. May God hold you in the hallow of his hand.
What a great man! As a young homeowner it was always nice to know I could count on the Jenkins. To complain about the HOA, to talk about the Jazz and enjoy sitting outside when the weather was nice. Len was a great neighbor and friend. Love you Elaine!
Elaine, Meagen, Adrienne, Josh & family, My snail mail will get to you eventually but I want you to be assured my sympathy and prayers are with you all now. Regretfully, I can't travel but know I am with you in spirit and love! Francine
To Len's Family: Please accept my condolences and best wishes. I had the priviledge of working with Len at The Department of Workforce Services and he definitely did make a difference in the lives of many! John Paul
To Len's Family, Susan & I send our condolences. Len always had great stories to share with all. I was fortunate to get to know Len at all the tasty bingo dinners he and Elaine prepared and served for Blessed Sacrament. Len you left great memories for those of us who were fortunate to know you...happy trails....and keep the pedal to the metal. Tom & Susan Feda
We are so sorry for your family's loss. He was a special man. May his memories give you joy and May theLord comfort you in his loss.
In Loving Memory
