James E. Jenks, 83

James "Jim" Erwin Jenks, 83, husband, father, grandfather, brother, soldier, mentor, and Bobcat was born on July 23, 1940, in Great Falls, to Max and Elinor Jenks. He grew up on the family farm and ranch in Hogeland, where he developed a strong work ethic and a love for agriculture. 

Jim attended grade school in Hogeland and high school in Harlem, Montana, where he participated in basketball, football, and track.  After graduating from Harlem High School in 1958, he went on to earn an agriculture economics degree at Montana State University. During his time at MSU, he was a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity as well as the Army ROTC program. He developed many friendships during his time at MSU that lasted throughout his life. Jim dedicated his time and devotion to MSU throughout his life and was a staunch Bobcat fan and supporter.  

After graduation, Jim joined the Army as a Second Lieutenant and began his training at Fort Knox and Fort Ord before being deployed to Korea. He was later promoted to first lieutenant and served as the platoon leader for 1st Platoon, Troop C, 2nd Squadron, 10th Calvary, 7th Infantry Division, Tank Group. Upon his return to the States to finish his service, he married Diane Ekegren, and they finished his time in the military at Fort Irwin, California. Jim received certificates of achievement as well as the Army Commendation Medal for his meritorious service in Korea.   

Jim has told family and friends his decision to leave the Army for farming was one of the hardest decisions of his life. He returned to Hogeland in 1965 and leased the Red Nixon farm and raised Angus cattle. They had three children, Tamara, Robert, and Sara Kelsey. Jim was active in the community serving on the Lutheran Church Board, Turner Public School Board, and American Legion, and he was a member of the volunteer fire department.  

His passion for agriculture led him to serve at the local, national, and international levels for several organizations. Jim was appointed to serve as a member of the Montana Wheat and Barley Committee and later elected to serve as chairman for U.S. Wheat Associates. It was during his time as chair of U.S. Wheat that he crisscrossed the globe, promoting U.S. wheat to nations across South America, Asia, and Africa. He later served on the Federal Reserve Board in Helena. Jim was fortunate to have lots of farm help throughout the years, but especially enjoyed having Elaine (Sudan) Allen and Brent Cresswell become part of his family. 

In 2005, Jim and Diane leased the farm to Shawn and Bobbi Beck and moved to Lakeside, coincidentally next door to the cabin Jim helped his grandfather build in 1950. Needing to fill his "retirement" days, Jim enjoyed early and late "coffees" in Lakeside, rounds of golf, boating adventures, and even a stint as a ski lift operator at Blacktail Mountain. Jim also served on the Immanuel Living Board of Directors for nine years, including a term as president during a time of expansion. 

Jim enjoyed a wonderful retirement and often mentioned how blessed he was. Jim enjoyed an occasional Scotch and an evening on their deck overlooking Flathead Lake. Jim and Diane were active in their granddaughters' lives and enjoyed many special occasions with them. Above all, Jim reveled in supporting his granddaughters’ extra-curricular activities. Even his beloved MSU Bobcats took a backseat to dance recitals and high school track meets.

He is survived by his wife, Diane (Ekegren) Jenks; their children, Tamara Kreitinger (Tate), Robert Jenks (Molly), Sara Kelsey Jenks; their grandchildren, Ahna and Avery Kreitinger; brother, Jack Jenks (Kathleen); and sister, Beth Petrie.  

Jim was a man of integrity; he was authentic and genuine. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. 

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 17, at the Hogeland Lutheran Church, with interment and military honors to follow at Silverbow Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to the charity of your choice.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for the family.