Our Interview with Resident John (Jake) Kenimer

Posted by on Nov 18, 2011 in Spirit | 93 comments

Our Interview with Resident John (Jake) Kenimer

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Gainesville, GA.

What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?  

Working at Piedmont Drugstore as a child. I used to ride my bicycle to deliver medicine for people that needed it.  We laughed and said he was like George in the movie, It’s a Wonderful Life!  They also had an Ice Cream Counter in the drug store.

What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?

Meeting my wife in Lula at a friend’s house. A friend sent Nell outside to my car to meet me and I asked her to marry me!  I wanted to get married before I left for the Marines!

Did you have a profession? If so what industry were you in and what did you do?

I was a cook!  I was a cook in the Marines for 22yrs. I used to bake all the birthday cakes and I even made the roses on them! I had 2 restaurants in Gainesville called, “Jake’s” and I made the best SOS and that  was what everyone wanted!  We fed everyone in Gainesville, even our now Governor.

Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII, Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?  

I was serving in the Marines in Vietnam during the war. Nell’s brother was in Vietnam with me.

Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud of when you look back on your life from your home in assisted living here in Gainesville, GA?

I am proud of everything I have done! No regrets! I have enjoyed every minute of life!

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?

Be good to everyone and treat them right. Love everyone, and trust in the Good Lord and He will see you through!

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?

Love them. I love my wife, my children and grandchildren.  You can’t go wrong!!

What brought you to assisted living in Gainesville, GA? Or Why did you choose Dogwood Forest?

Our daughter chose the Holbrook where we lived for a while, but we needed more help so we moved to Dogwood.

How do you enjoy Dogwood Forest as your new home?

We really enjoy it, we get lots of help and we love going on the bus to lunch and other places.

What is your favorite part of living at Dogwood?

Our friends!  We make friends everywhere we go.

Who is your best friend at Dogwood?

Kathy!!

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