He was born April 30, 1943 to Gerald and Violet (Burrows) Jinks in Turlock, CA. He married Cheryl Spencer August 14, 1965 in Oswego, KS.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 54 years, children Jeffry (Laura) Jinks of Carbondale, IL, Angela (Jim) Almeda of Bloomington; grandchildren Ashley Jinks of Redding, CA, Rafael Matt-Jinks of Espanola, NM; Christopher Almeda, of Bloomington, Nathan Almeda of Bloomington; mother, Violet Jinks of Columbus, KS; and lifelong friend Del Prophet of Green Valley, AZ. He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald.
Jerry's parents opened a full service bakery in Oswego, Kansas after World War II. Jerry grew up in the bakery, making deliveries and keeping supplies stocked. After his parents closed the full service bakery, the family operated a regional favorite in Jinks Traditional Fruitcakes, continuing to produce their popular holiday product for another 25 years under Jerry and Cheryl's management.
Jerry was known professionally as a man of science, advocating progressive ideas in education. He began his career teaching Natural Science in Junior and Senior High School. After earning his PHD at KS State University he became a professor at the University of Montana in Billings, moving to department chair at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant. At IL State University, Normal, he became department chair in C&I and Professor of Science Education. He retired as Professor Emeritus from ISU, Normal. He was a lifelong student of science, the natural world and human nature. He loved spending time with his grandkids and teaching them about the world around them; to see and listen to nature. He also enjoyed wood working, making small furniture and gifts for friends and family using exotic woods.
He will be remembered as an intelligent, gentle, generous man who took great joy in his kids and grandkids.
Cremation rites have been accorded, East Lawn Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be sent to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio Street, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60611. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.eastlawnmemorial.com.
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