Sheila Kay Schenk, 69, passed away peacefully in Smith Center, Kansas, on August 30, 2024. She was born on April 3, 1955, in Smith Center, Kansas, and was one of four children.
Sheila was preceded in death by her parents, Clifford “Jocko” Gillen and Norma Horning Gillen, as well as her brother, John Gillen.
Sheila attended Gaylord Grade School and Alton High School before transferring to Smith Center High School, where she graduated. She later continued her education at Brown Mackie College in Salina, Kansas.
Sheila married her high school sweetheart, Randy Schenk, and they recently celebrated 50 wonderful years of marriage together.
Sheila’s life was deeply rooted in her unwavering faith and love for the Lord. Her faith was a guiding light in her life, bringing her peace and strength through all of life’s challenges.
Her greatest joys were her family, especially her children and grandchildren, whom she loved with all her heart. Sheila cherished the time she spent with them, whether it was in her home or traveling to visit them. She always made sure her home was filled with love, warmth, and the delicious aromas of meals prepared with care. Cooking was one of Sheila’s passions, and she took great joy in preparing meals that brought her family together.
Sheila also dedicated over 20 years of her life to caring for children through her daycare. Her gentle and nurturing spirit touched the lives of countless families, and she was known for her patience, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the children she cared for. In addition to her work at the Pioneer newspaper office, Sheila also held various bookkeeping jobs in Smith Center, always bringing diligence and care to her work.
Sheila is survived by her loving husband, Randy Schenk; her children, Clifford (Jessica), Troy (Candace), Kyle (Kristen), and Jacob (Audra); and her nine cherished grandchildren: Gracie, Sawyer, Elenora, Nolan, Koen, Kolter, Cadence, Evelyn, and Kallen. She is also survived by her siblings, Marvin (Connie) Gillen and Marlene (Steve) Murphy, along with many beloved nieces and nephews. Sheila also leaves behind her in-laws, who were an important part of her life and whom she considered her own family. She loved them deeply and cherished the close bonds they shared.