Jerry Neil Enke

Jerry Neil Enke was born on March 30, 1953, in Salem, Missouri. He was one of seven children born to Alfred Eugene and Mary (Richards) Enke. He grew up in Lenox, where he built a life rooted in hard work and family. On December 12, 1981, he married the love of his life, Donna L. Cooper, and together they shared forty-four years of marriage and lasting memories. Jerry and Donna were blessed with three children: Troy, Scott, and Amy. Jerry dedicated much of his working life as a maintenance foreman with Floyd Charcoal, now known as Royal Oak. His strong work ethic began at a young age, from baling hay to providing for his family, and continued throughout his career. He took pride in doing a job right and never shied away from hard work. Jerry was a jack of all trades. A self-taught electrician. He had a hard time asking for help with anything that he could not fix himself. He loved classic cars, sweet tea, a good shade tree with the BBQ grill going and a sweet piece of watermelon and Aunt Celia’s pickles. An outdoorsman at heart, Jerry loved hunting, especially deer and elk, fishing, and spending time at Lake Spring, Lake Tealwood, or on the family farm. Jerry loved working around the farm on his tractor, and you could always find him tinkering in the garage. He loved living a quiet, simple, and such fulling life. Above all, he deeply loved his family. His most important role was that as a grandpa and his grandchildren absolutely meant the world to him. Jerry passed away April 17, 2026, in Springfield, Missouri, at the age of seventy-three years. He is survived by his loving wife: Donna Enke of Lenox, MO; sons: Troy Enke and wife Rebekah of Ozark, MO and Scott Enke and wife Jenna of Buckhannon, WV; daughter: Amy Thompson and husband Jon of Lenox, MO; siblings: Butch Enke and wife Bonita of Salem, MO, Bonnie Parks of Salem, MO, and Donald Enke of Rolla, MO; grandchildren: Leah, Elijah, Vada, Brantley, Logan, and Kymber; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. Preceding him in death were his parents: Alfred and Mary (Richards) Enke; and siblings: Wayne Enke, Leroy Enke, and Ellen Mitchell. Jerry was known for his straightforward nature, honesty, and independent spirit. While he could be contrary at times and never suffered fools, he had a deeply caring side. He was devoted to his family, always willing to lend a hand, and quietly looked after elderly neighbors and those in need. Jerry will be remembered for his strength, his honesty, his dedication to those he loved, and the quiet ways he made a difference in the lives around him. Funeral Services were held Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Chris Hendrix officiating. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Jerry to the Enke Cemetery and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Leave the family a condolence or share a memory on his tribute page at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Jerry Neil Enke

March 30, 1953 - April 17, 2026