Michael Shenk
June 8, 1941 - January 20, 2024
Lexington, Kentucky - Michael Jay Shenk, 82, of Lexington, KY passed away peacefully on January 20, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Mike was born on June 8, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan to Harry and Rosalind (Snider) Shenk. Mike graduated from Wayne State University in Detroit. He met his future wife, JoAnn McGrath while still a student there when they were both working summer jobs in Mount Carmel Hospital in Detroit. After graduation, Mike and JoAnn married on June 13, 1964. Mike went on to work for the Cadillac Motor Company and American Motors in Detroit. In 1972 he accepted an executive job with the National Electric Sign Association in the Chicago area that led him and JoAnn to their next home in Downers Grove, IL, where they went on to raise their family over the next 32 years. During that time, Mike became involved in many community organizations, serving on the board of his church, local tennis club and other groups that connected him to many new friends in the area. Mike eventually became a realtor representing many clients in the western suburbs until he retired in 2004. Mike was an avid tennis player, even winning a local "fastest serve" competition. When he was forced to give up tennis, he took up golf with the same competitive enthusiasm. He loved nature, especially spending time in his garden. He also loved reading, playing cards and watching professional sports. He loved any opportunity to get together with friends and above all, cherished time with his family. In addition to JoAnn, his loving wife of 59 years, Mike is survived by his children; Mike (Christine) of Perkasie, PA, Brian (Ann) of Bay Village, OH and Julie (Neal) Clarke of Nicholasville, KY. He is also survived by his grandchildren; Michael III, Megan, Morgan, Charlie, Georgia and Henry. He is further survived by his sister-in-law, Sue Shenk and Brother-in-law, Bill (Judy) McGrath as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his only brother, Geoffrey Shenk. A celebration of life will be held at 2:30 PM, Sat., Feb. 10, 2024, at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home, 3421 Harrodsburg Rd., Lexington, KY 40513. Visitation will be prior from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM. In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested to the Lexington Rescue Mission, 535 W. Second St., Suite 105, Lexington, KY 40508. lexingtonrescue.org/donate/