Eugene Jahncke

Eugene H. Jahncke, 90, of Cedar Rapids, died Monday, February 12, 2018 at his home. A private graveside service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers Gene requests that you share a memory of him with those you love.

Eugene Henry Jahncke was born March 1, 1927 in Oelwein, Iowa, the son of Alvin and Caroline (Mohlis) Jahncke. Gene joined the United States Army in June of 1945 and was assigned to the 752nd Tank Battalion, attached to the 88th Blue Devil Division in Italy. He was honorably discharged in January of 1947. He graduated from Oelwein High School and the University of Northern Iowa with a Bachelors of Science and from the University of Iowa with a Masters in Special Education. He was united in marriage to Maude Schoenmaker in June of 1969. Gene taught in the Cedar Rapids School District and served as Coordinator of Special Education. He was a member of the Sierra Club, the United Nations Association and Amnesty International. Gene often talked about what a wonderful life he lived and summed it up with this thought: "I thank all of you who have so grandly enriched my life".

Survivors include three children: Chris Jahncke, Claudia (Rick) Ketchum, Lisa (Harry) Suszko all of Cedar Rapids; one granddaughter Amanda (Zach) Waddell and two great grandsons.

He is also survived by two step-sons: John (Jill) Cummings and Robert Cummings; two step-daughters: Margaret (Gerry) Kramer, Mary Beth (Steve) Bender; nine step-grandchildren and 12 step-great grandchildren.

Preceding Gene in death was his wife Maude, his son Steven Jahncke and his sister Maxine Teague.