SURRY – Charles Louis Jencks, 82, died Feb. 14, 2009, surrounded by members of his family, at home. He was born July 22, 1926, in Hartford, Conn., son of Charles Edgar and Elaine (DeMonte) Jencks. Charlie served two years in the U.S. Navy during World War II in air traffic control. He earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Rhode Island, followed by a 35-year career with General Electric Co., during which he and his family lived in Avon, Conn. Throughout his working career, Charlie was awarded 42 patents for his design and development of electrical circuit protective devices. Charlie married Patricia Hildebrand, Jan. 2, 1956. Together they raised three children, Gregory C. Jencks, Charles E. Jencks and Sarah-Kate (Jencks) Pratt. Charlie and Pat retired to Surry in 1987. Charlie took particular pleasure in rural life and nature, and being on the water, boating and fishing. He loved to walk along the shore, and enjoyed cutting firewood. Charlie was a golfer and avidly explored his adopted state of Maine, and took much pleasure in his many friends, happy get-togethers and the wonderful Poker Bunch. Charlie was a gifted ship model-maker and restorer, and enjoyed puzzles of all kinds. Charlie was active in Surry town affairs serving five years on the planning board and a willing volunteer whenever needed. He was a member of Surry Community Improvement Association, Surry Garden Club and Surry Historical Society. Charlie is survived by his wife, Pat; his three children; his daughter-in-law, Paula B. Jencks; son-in-law, Paul Pratt; three grandchildren, Rebecca, Nicole and Daniel Jencks of Falling Waters, W.Va.; a brother, Arthur, of Englewood, Fla.; and a sister, Joanne Pitz of East Hartford, Conn. Charlie’s family thanks the many friends and neighbors for their loving support and care during his last few months. Calling hours will be 10 a.m. Monday, March 9, at Jordan-Fernald, 113 Franklin St. Ellsworth, with a memorial service 11 a.m. conducted by the Rev. Alice Hildebrand and the Rev. Allen Myers. Interment will be at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Hartford, Conn., at a later date. Donations in Charlie’s memory may be made to Surry Community Improvement Association Scholarship Fund, care of Max Brenninkmeyer, treasurer, P.O. Box 253, Surry, ME 04684; Hancock County HomeCare and Hospice, P.O. Box 156, Blue Hill, ME 04614; or Surry Memorial Park Fund, care of Surry Town Office, P.O. Box 147, Surry, ME 04684. Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.
CHARLES LOUIS JENCKS
