John "Jack" E. Zenk

John E. “Jack” Zenk, of Bull Valley, IL passed away on December 4, 2023. Jack was born on April 27, 1941 in Sheboygan, WI to Paul E. Zenk and Ruth L. Kahle. He was the second oldest of eight children. He is survived by brother Robert Zenk, of Hamilton, IL, sisters Jeannie Moritz, of Henderson, NV, Vicki Clapper of Sheboygan Falls, WI, and Sandi Cuckler of Mequon, WI, and many nieces and nephews.

Jack attended McHenry High School and after he joined the US Navy. He spent most of his adult life in Bull Valley. He lived on and managed Century Ridge Farm. The farm has been in the Zenk family for over 130 years, started by his grandfather William Zenk. Jack’s uncles William Jr (Nick) and Glen (Pete) ran the farm for many years after his grandfather died. It was Jack’s pride and joy. There was always work to be done on the farm and if you were there, you were working. Countless memories at the farm will always be cherished by his friends and family.

Traveling was a passion of Jack’s as he traveled the world over the years. Greece and Egypt were two of his favorite destinations. In his later years, to escape the snow, Jack would winter at South Padre Island, TX.

Jack owned and operated a hair salon in Long Grove, Il. He made many friends in Long Grove and was a regular at the Village Tavern. He enjoyed helping his clients and friends decorate their homes for Halloween and Thanksgiving with corn stalks and pumpkins from the farm.

We used to call Jack the “Mayor of McHenry” because it seemed he knew just about everyone. You could regularly find him at the Corner Tap or the Fox Hole. But by far his favorite thing to do was sit outside at the farm and reminisce about days gone by, of course you would have to have a few cold beers while doing so. Jack will be sorely missed.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 from 9 AM until the time of prayers at 10 AM at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. ( Rte 176) Crystal Lake. A procession to St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church for a 10:30 AM funeral mass will follow. Burial to follow at Crystal Lake Union Cemetery, Crystal Lake.