Arlen Jenks, Sr., age 76, of Sheridan, passed away on Thursday, November 25, 2021, in Alma, at the MidMichigan Medical Center – Gratiot. A 1963 graduate of Sheridan High School, Arlen worked on a farm and for a construction crew until he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1964. During his time in the Navy, Arlen served two tours in Vietnam with the Navy’s Seabee’s, earning both the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. After he left the Navy, Arlen worked for the State of Michigan until his retirement in the early 2000’s. After his retirement, Arlen enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, playing golf and card games, and wintering in Florida. He was also a very active member of the Sheridan VFW and will be deeply missed by everyone. Surviving Arlen is his special friend, Jane Wittkopp; daughter, Tammy (Derrel) Denham of Sparta; sons, Arlen Jr. (Brandi) Jenks of Glen St. Mary, Florida and Thad Jenks of Langston; 8 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; brothers, Allen (Linda) Jenks of Sheridan, Dean (Patricia) Jenks of Del Valle, Texas, Daniel (Susan) Jenks of Iowa, Greg (Louise) Jenks of Chesapeake, Virginia, and Kevin (Nancy) Jenks of Sheridan. Arlen was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley & Lois (Rockfellow) Jenks; sister, Elaine Marie Jenks; and brother, Gayle Jenks. Visitation for Arlen is being held on Tuesday, November 30th from 4 – 6 PM at the Simpson Family Funeral Home in Sheridan (246 S. Main St.). Funeral services for Arlen will be on Wednesday, December 1st, at the Simpson Family Funeral Home in Sheridan, beginning at 11 AM. Final inurnment will be at Evergreen Township Cemetery. For those wanting to make a memorial donation in Arlen’s memory the family suggests you direct them to the Sheridan Sitts-Halvorsen VFW Post 5065. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home on Tuesday and Wednesday.