Donald Dayton Jenks, 80, of Brainerd, passed away peacefully while surrounded by family and friends on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at the home he loved.

Don was born on July 6, 1946, in Charles City, Iowa, to Gordon D. and Margaret M. (Nixt) Jenks. After his family moved to the Minneapolis area, he spent his younger years chasing adventure on motorcycles and the ski slopes. He proudly served in the United States Navy, where he learned the machinist trade that perfectly matched his knack for fixing, building, and tinkering with just about anything. He especially enjoyed telling stories about guns and deer hunting.

Following his retirement from Larson Systems, Don filled his days doing what he loved most—hunting, fishing, and pin shooting, where he earned the nickname "Top Gun" in the 1980s as a lightning-fast three-second shooter. But his favorite title was simply Grandpa. Whether it was "Grandpa Daycare," pulling pranks, or making memories with his grandchildren, they brought him endless joy and laughter. He also treasured the many road trips he shared with his mother between Minnesota and Yuma, Arizona—trips that just happened to include a few casino stops along the way.

Don will be deeply missed by his wife of 48 years, Carole; his children, Jennifer Wahl, Dan Jenks, and Karen (Michael) Nelson; his grandchildren, Daelynn, Caitlyn, Leo, Georgia, Frankie, and Erik; his sister, Gloria Johnson; and many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Caroline; his nephew, Robert Johnson; and his parents.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Liz from Comfort Keepers and the entire team at Good Samaritan Hospice for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion they provided.

Memorials are preferred to the family.

Please join Don's family in celebrating his life at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Nelson-Doran Funeral Home. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service, and all are invited to stay afterward for a reception, stories, and fellowship.