Russell D. Jenks

Feeding Hills- Russell D. “Rusty”, “Chief” Jenks, 87, beloved husband of 65 years to the late Joan C. (Schube) Jenks, passed away on January 31, 2019 at Heritage Woods in Agawam. He was born on April 18, 1931 in Springfield, Massachusetts, son of the late Prentiss and Martha (Stebbins) Jenks. A lifelong resident of Feeding Hills, he was a graduate of Agawam High School where he excelled in football. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving his country proudly with the U.S. Navy. Rusty joined the Agawam Fire Department in 1954 and served as Fire Chief from 1981-1993, retiring in 1993 after nearly 40 years of service. He owned his own antique fire engine that he proudly drove during many of Agawam’s parades and celebrations. He was a member of the Western Massachusetts Model A Club, Fire Chief’s Association, and the Agawam Historical Society. He enjoyed collecting Model A Ford cars, traveling to Cape Cod, attending car shows, fishing and watching football. In addition to his wife and parents, Rusty was predeceased by his 4 brothers. He is survived by several nieces and nephews. Elaine and Ron Corriveau would like to extend a special thank you to the Heritage Woods and Hospice Staff, and especially to his “Nursing Angels” Tina, Melissa and Angela for the compassionate care displayed. A gathering of family and friends for will be held from 11AM-12PM on Monday, February 11, 2019 at Colonial Forastiere Funeral Home, 985 Main St., Agawam, MA with a funeral service beginning at 12PM at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will follow in Springfield Street Cemetery, Feeding Hills. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Rusty’s name to the Agawam Fire Department, 800 Main St., Agawam, MA 01001.