Carol Ann Schenk (née Perkins)

Carol Ann Schenk (née Perkins), fortified with the Sacraments of the Catholic Church, died peacefully on Thursday, September 25, 2025 after a brief battle with cancer. 

Beloved wife of Richard Schenk for 53 years; dear mother of Patsy (Paul) Klein, Julie (Nick) Peterson, Rick (Jenny) Schenk, Brian (Danielle) Schenk, and Corey (Colleen) Schenk; proud grandmother of 15 grandchildren; dear sister of Patricia (the late Greg) Cierpiot; and cherished by many extended family and friends.

Carol and Dick were married in 1972 and welcomed their first of five children a year later. Carol’s greatest joy in life was her family, to whom she dedicated herself wholeheartedly. Her deep love was evident in the way she cared for her mother, Alice Perkins, who lived in the Schenk family home for over 20 years. As a devoted mother of five, Carol filled her days attending school events, driving her children to countless activities, and volunteering at both Visitation Academy and De Smet Jesuit High School. She especially loved cheering on her boys at hockey games, where she formed many treasured friendships.

Alongside her family responsibilities, Carol founded Just Me Apparel in 1975, a Catholic school uniform company that grew to serve more than 75 schools before it was sold in 1996. The business was truly a family affair, with Dick and all the children pitching in. The Schenk family often jokingly referred to Just Me Apparel as their “family farm.”

Carol was a proud graduate of Visitation Academy, where she began in Montessori while her mother taught at the school. She grew close to many of the Sisters and remained an active alumna for years. Her pride in Visitation continued as both of her daughters graduated from Viz as well. Carol later earned her bachelor’s degree from Fontbonne University and was happy to tell everyone that she was a speech and drama major.

n retirement, Carol cherished her many grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Gubby.” She loved spending family vacations in Siesta Key, where she built lifelong friendships that became like family. Alongside her husband, Carol devoted her time to Christ Prince of Peace Catholic Church, as an active member and volunteer. Carol’s faith never wavered; she believed deeply that God would provide for her and care for her. Her family takes comfort knowing she has been welcomed into heaven. Carol often joked that any mother of three boys was guaranteed entry.

Services:  Funeral Mass at Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 415 Weidman Road, Manchester, MO 63011, Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.  Private Interment National Cemetery, Jefferson Barracks, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Cross Catholic Outreach.  Visitation at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Friday, October 10, 2025, from 4-8 p.m. Friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.