RUMFORD – George W. Jenkins, 61, of Auburn Road, Peru, died Saturday, Jan. 19, following a long illness.

He was born in Attleboro, Mass., on March 8, 1946, a son of William J. and Helen (Perkoski) Jenkins.

George proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and spent three years there.

As a member of VFW Post No. 1641, George was an officer, past all state commander, District No. 9 commander, and a state officer until his declining health.

He was also a member of the Disabled American Veterans, Vietnam Veterans of America, the Amvets Post No. 0033, the American Legion Post No. 24, the Rumford Lodge of Elks No. 862, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 1248.

He enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, and spending time with his fellow veterans.

His true loves in life were his wife and their dogs.

He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Debora (Sylvester) Jenkins of Peru; a father-in-law Henry Sylvester and wife, Phyllis, of Peru; a sister-in-law Candy Porter and husband, Tim, of Peru; two brothers-in-law, Andy Sylvester and wife, Jean, of Hebron, and John Sylvester and his companion, Kim, of Jay; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; and a sister-in-law, Sandy Kerr.