John R. Schenk

John R. Schenk,82, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2025, at Kirksville Manor Care Center. He was born on August 5, 1942, in Scotland County, Missouri to parents, Paul and Ruby Schenk. He was welcomed by sisters Mary, Joanna, and Esther.

John was a graduate of Scotland County R-1 High School in May 1962 and while in high school he enjoyed running track. After high school, John attended Kirksville State College in Kirksville, MO from 1962-1965. John joined the United States Army in February 1966 and served in Vietnam in the AirBorne 42nd company and as a clerk/unit historian.

He married Laura Otte on December 14, 1975, and to this union two children were born:Alison and Joshua, were born.

During John’s life, he never met a person he did not know or a question he would not ask. John loved driving around, taking pictures, talking to strangers, and trying to find the deal of the century. He loved attending auctions and was always proud of his treasures (he had the storage units to prove it). John enjoyed farming.

John is survived by his wife of 49 years, Laura; children, Alison (ex-husband Joseph) and Joshua; sisters Mary and Esther; sisters-in-law: Charlotte Sweet and Donna Otte; grandchild: Cooper; and grand dog Willa along with nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Preceding John in death are his parents Paul and Ruby Schenk; Sister: Joanna; Brother-in-laws: Willis, Donald, Russell, and Lyle Otte and Jessie Morrison and Lynn Cochran; and Sister-in-laws; Betty Morrison and Maurine Cochran

To know John was an entirely special experience. You never knew the comment or question that was going to be stated whether it was appropriate or if a fight was about to start.