Harold Lee Jenkins

Harold L. Jenkins, 88, beloved husband, father, and father-in-law, went home to be with the Lord on March 8, 2012, following a brief illness.

Harold was born on July 16, 1923, in Humboldt, Nebraska, to Charles Morris and Nola Albright Jenkins. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Bette, their daughter, Mary Jenkins Conway and her husband, Mike Conway of Dallas. Harold was preceded in death by his three brothers, Walter, Morris, Jr. and Bill.

A member of the greatest generation, Harold was proud to serve his country in World War II as an Officer of the Navy on the Landing Ship Tank 1015 in the Pacific Theater for several years. He served as Navigator on the LST 1015. He later joined the Naval Reserves.

Following the war, Harold returned to Southeast Nebraska to marry. He and his bride, Bette, moved to Lincoln, Nebraska, where Harold graduated with a Masters Degree from the University of Nebraska.

Upon graduation, Harold began his successful career as a Banking/Savings and Loan/Financial Institution Marketing Executive in Kansas City. He and his family later moved to Chicago, where he was regarded as an international leader and innovator in the field of financial institution marketing, heading up a trade association for financial executives. He lectured and wrote numerous articles for major business publications and newspapers. Harold also authored a book on the subject, "Action Marketing For Savings Institutions".

Harold was a loving man of outstanding moral character. A highly respected professional, he never compromised his ethics and integrity. He was a devout Catholic, having converted to Catholicism during the war. He was a blessed man of God. Harold was a prayerful man with unshakable faith in the holy will of God. He prayed the Holy Rosary daily and was devoted to the Blessed Mother. He never failed to place his family's needs above his own. He was a loyal and devoted husband, as well as a sensitive, caring, kind and generous father and father-in-law.

During his final days, Harold faced challenges with dignity, grace and courage beyond measure. Those who knew him, admired him and loved him...family and friends who remain behind...await with joyful anticipation their reunion with him. He will most surely stand behind the Lord with open arms, as a gracious host, to welcome his friends and loved ones home.

Harold and Bette were long-time residents of Kansas City, Missouri and were parishioners of St. Therese Parish, Kansas City, Missouri, for 35 years. They recently relocated to Dallas, Texas, to join their daughter and son-in-law. A Mass was held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Frisco, Texas on March 13, 2012. Harold was laid to rest at Resurrection Catholic Cemetary in Kansas City, Missouri.