Gerald Eugene Schmenk

Prominent attorney Gerald “Jerry” Eugene Schmenk passed away in the early hours of May 21, 2014 in his residence in Springfield, Ohio. Jerry is survived by his wife, Lorie Schmenk; his sisters Donna Jean (Jim) Ellerbrock and DeEtta (Dick) Straker; his six daughters Debbie (Chris) Stewart, Christine Schmenk-Woods, Laura (Jaze) Perry, Michelle (Big Dan) Helton, Jeri Lynne (Jeremiah) Schmenk-Sanford and attorney Heidi Schmenk; his two daughters by marriage whom he loved as his own Krista (Phillip) Hooten and Debbie (Kenneth) Harmer; Grand-children Ashleigh, Colin, Brynn Stewart, Courtney and Candace Woods, Amber (Zac) Marshall, Sarah, Jared and Grace Perry, Daniel, Daniel, Aidan, and Rosalia ‘lton, Jerald, Josie, and Jeorgia Sanford-Schmenk, Frankie (granddog), Kelsey, Alexandra, Hannah, Parker and Brady Hooten, Isabelle and Jacob Harmer; and great-grandchildren Austin Woods, Hannah, Bradley, and Emma Rose Marshall and Brayden Woods, predeceased. Every one in his family held a special place in his heart. In addition to family Jerry will be greatly missed by his many friends, colleagues, clients, and his former wife Ann Hoffman and former in-laws. Jerry came to Springfield in the late 60’s after graduating from Ohio State Law School. In 1987 he and Richard A. Spencer began the law practice Schmenk & Spencer, which continued until his death. Jerry specialized in real estate and was sought out for his opinion from clients as well as other attorneys. Jerry was one of the last “Lawyer’s” lawyer. Jerry’s philosophy was to “live life well while you can”. He took pleasure in spending time with his family. Many hours were spent playing cards and board games- time he loved whether he won or lost (although his grandchildren will tell you he often won). He liked doing crossword puzzles and cherished reading. As often as possible Jerry spent time walking outdoors whether hiking at the Glen, at the CJ Brown Reservoir or just in the neighborhood. Jerry took pride in his work and enjoyed helping people and solving problems. He loved attending horse races and when he won he was generous (but then again he was always generous). He loved music and attending plays, including the Springfield Summer Arts Festival. He loved sports and every year was going to be the Brown’s year! He endured many trials in his life, including prolonged battles with cancer. Throughout the years despite experiencing pain few can imagine, he maintained a positive outlook, quick wit, and devilish sense of humor. He never gave up: not on himself or anyone else. Always stating that cancer may have taken his voice but not his mind. A memorial service for Gerald E. Schmenk will be Monday, May 26 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Charles Church in the Day Chapel at 4500 Ackerman Blvd, Kettering, OH. As it was his wish to be cremated, there will be no viewing. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the Tecumseh Land Trust, the Springfield Summer Arts Festival or simply do an act of kindness for another as he himself did for so many. And if you are a smoker, please quit.

Gerald Eugene Schmenk

November 18, 1941 - May 21, 2014