Elmer (Gene) Jenkins, commander, U.S. Navy (retired), 76, 23-year resident of Oak Harbor, died Monday, May 19, 2003, at his home, following a short illness.

Mr. Jenkins was born and raised in Denver, Colo., on Sept. 23, 1926. He attended East High School and graduated from the University of Denver. He served two years in the Colorado National Guard and in the US Navy for two years during World War II. He worked as a sanitarian (public health officer) in Colorado Springs, Colo., until he was called back during the Korean Conflict. He returned to public health work, until he was commissioned as an officer and re-entered the Navy. He retired in 1979 with the rank of commander. He served with virtually every type of vessel and shore command while in naval service. While serving in Vietnam with the Third Marine Division he was appointed as the division preventive medicine officer. Cmdr. Jenkins was a registered sanitarian in Illinois, Colorado and California. He was a Diplomat in the American Intersociety Academy for Certification of Sanitarians and was active in the American Public Health Association. He was a model railroad enthusiast, a fresh water fisherman and a hobby carpenter. Gene enjoyed music and was the leader of the “Silvertones,” affiliated with the Senior Center in Oak Harbor.

He leaves his wife of 53 years, Elaine. He is also survived by his son, Keith Jenkins, M.D., of Illinois; his daughter, Laura Jenkins of Yakima and four grandchildren.

In keeping with his wishes, no services will be held. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.