Jake Kenbeek

LIFESTORY:

Like many who came of age during the Great Depression and World War II, Jake Kenbeek was shaped by the values of hard work and sacrifice that found him to be part of “The Greatest Generation.” Although outspoken at times, he would listen to the other side of the story.. Sadly missed, he will be fondly remembered.

It was in 1921, a time of change when a young couple in Detroit, Michigan anticipated the arrival of a new child in their lives. On a warm, mid-summer's day, Luke and Nellie (Blok) Kenbeek welcomed the arrival of their son, Jacob, who was born on July 24, 1921.

Raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Jake was the second of eight children in a bustling household. His father supported their large family buying and selling produce while his mother looked after their household and the children. He enjoyed a typical childhood for the times, but the onset of the Great Depression created times of struggle for all. Whether it was helping his father with the produce or other odd jobs, as far back as Jake could remember he always had a way of earning enough to rub two nickels together. He attended the area schools and went on to graduate from Kalamazoo Central High School.

Following high school, Jake enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corp from July, 1942 to December, 1945 during World War II. During his enlistment, he was instrumental in the instruction of Army and Army Air Corp personnel in the use of, what was then cutting edge technology, RADAR. During this time, he married Blanche Elaine Lynn. After the war, he continued working as a driver for his father, and always the hard worker.

Jake and Blanche made their home together in the Kalamazoo area where they raised their three children, James, Linda and William. He soon began working as a long-haul trucker to provide for his family, and acquired the CB handle, "Lamplighter". His career as an over-the-road trucker caused him to be away during the week making his weekends that much more important.

Jake and Blanche shared memorable times traveling with their travel trailer camping in Michigan and the East Coast. As avid square dancers, they frequently traveled to many square dancing meets and enjoyed year-round fishing together, as well. In 1972, Jake suffered the loss of his wife which was a difficult time for him and his family. Jake continued his truck driving and also filled his time with reading, and making his children and grandchildren things which will be forever be treasured.

In 1972, Jake was introduced to Mary Esther Ingersoll whose spouse, Wayland (Bill) had also passed away. After their introduction by Fr. Consani, the two made plans for a date. They went out for dinner and Jake even taught Mary a few square dance moves. In time their friendship grew to include a deep, abiding love. Two years later on May 25, 1974, they were joined in marriage at St. Monica Church and spent a memorable honeymoon in Hawaii. With Mary's gentle persuasion, Jake converted to the Catholic faith in support of Mary in the 1980s.

After 11 years, Jake finally retired from trucking only to begin working as a bank courier for another 11 years. However, with their shared love for travel, Jake and Mary took many, memorable vacations and traveled to exciting destinations such as another trip to Hawaii and trips to Texas, Europe and several cruises to the Mediterranean and Alaska. They also spent a number of years wintering in the warmth of Florida hauling their 35 foot trailer. They also kept on square dancing and attending various meets throughout the country. Great times were also spent in Michigan's Upper Peninsula visiting some of their favorite places and Mary’s relatives.

Jake and Mary were fond of going to shows at the Kalamazoo Civic and Jake spent quiet time working on crossword puzzles, reading or simply reminiscing. Sadly, Jake's wife, Mary became ill and died on October 28, 2011. Less than three months later, Jake peacefully passed away Monday, January 23, 2012 at the age of 90.

A longtime resident of Kalamazoo, Jacob "Jake" Kenbeek was often outspoken and clearly had his share of opinions, It never diminished his love for family, or the devotion and care bestowed on the two special women in his life. When Blanche passed away, a part of Jake's heart went with her. Several month's following Mary's death, Jake's broken heart could no longer continue without his loving companion by his side. Always remembered, he will be sorely missed.

Along with his wives, Jake was preceded in death by five siblings. His memory will be cherished by his three children: James (Harriett) Kenbeek, Linda Kerr and William Kenbeek; three stepchildren: Wayland “Korky” (Linda) Ingersoll, Sharon (Ken) Hasper, Suzanne (Mark) Vincent; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two sisters: Linda Peters and Clara Leuwen. Cremation will take place. A funeral mass will be celebrated Friday, January 27, 2012, 11:00 AM at St. Monica Catholic Church (534 W. Kilgore Rd, Kalamazoo). Following the service, the family will share in food and fellowship in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Monica Catholic Church. The family asks you to please visit Jake Kenbeek’s personal page online at www.lifestorynet.com to share photos, condolences, and a favorite memory. Life Story Funeral Homes, Betzler – Kalamazoo; 6080 Stadium Drive (375-2900).