Lowell K. "Gooch" Jenkins

MADISON – Lowell K. “Gooch” Jenkins, age 70 of Madison, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2007 at the Ellen and Peter Johnson Hospice Residence in Fitchburg. He was born April 5, 1936 in Racine, the son of Curtis and Ninabelle Jenkins, and extended family, Irene Jenkins (grandmother) and Mary “Sister” Jenkins (aunt). Following graduation from Racine Horlick High School, Gooch attended the University of Wisconsin – Madison. He lettered all four years as a tackle for the Badger Football team and played in the 1960 Rose Bowl. He was later drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, but chose to pursue a Masters Degree in Art at UW-Madison, graduating in 1962. Gooch was a professional artist and sculptor, both in Chicago and San Francisco. Upon returning to his hometown of Racine, he developed a career in AODA. He became a certified trainer of AODA counselors and helped develop the professional standards still used for state certification. For 20 years, he was the State of Wisconsin Minority Services Training Coordinator. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Rose; a son, Jocopo (Gloria ) Jenkins, of Madison; a daughter, Japonica ( Korbey) White, of Verona; 3 grandsons, J. Terell, Joshua, and Justin; extended Jenkins family, Thelma, Charlene, Frank, David, Cheryl, and Marianne. A memorial service celebrating Gooch’s life will be held at the ELLEN & PETER JOHNSON HOSPICE RESIDENCE, 5395 E. Cheryl Pkwy., in the Doc Rock Café, on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2007 at 1 p.m. A reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established.