Kenneth "Jared" Meeks

Kenneth “Jared” Meeks

   We are broken-hearted to announce that Kenneth “Jared” Meeks passed away in a fire on Rainbow Lake Road on Thanksgiving morning at the age of 41.  A lifelong resident of Lodi Township in Athens County, he was born on January 11, 1982.  

     He is survived by his parents, Kenneth L. and Rhonda Meeks of Shade, his sister Jenna Meeks of Athens, his brother Chase Meeks of Pomeroy, niece Kiley Meeks, surrogate grandparents Sam and Sheila Theiss, aunts Renee Bircher and Karen Schmidt, uncles Kelly Meeks (Jessie), Kriss Meeks and Karl Meeks, several great aunts, great uncles, cousins, and special friends.   Jared was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Shorty and Beulah Meeks and maternal grandparents Dave and Connie Bircher.  

     Jared was an outdoorsman and an expert carpenter.  With his keen imagination, he could take a piece of wood and mold it into a masterpiece.  He graced our lives with intricate woodworking that spoke volumes of his creativity and mastery.  A beacon of generosity, his small gifts mirrored the enormity of his heart.  He enjoyed making people smile and his friendly demeanor forged connections wherever he went.  Jared found solace and joy in the great outdoors working the land.  He cherished his time spent hunting, fishing and being surrounded by God’s beauty.  He also possessed a deep love for little children and animals.  Though departed too soon, his legacy lives on through the cherished memories of family and friends, honoring an old soul in a young frame.  

     A 2000 graduate of Alexander, member of the Alexander FFA and a longtime 4-H member, Jared worked in the family sawmill business for several years.  He was especially proud of receiving his FFA American Degree and 1st in the state in Forestry Proficiency.  

     Jared is now resting in peace.  He leaves behind his many treasures gifted to family and friends and a trove of wonderful memories.  Jared Meeks:  A soulful artisan, an adventurous spirit, forever remembered and deeply missed.  

     Thanks to all emergency personnel who gave selflessly on this Thanksgiving morning.  Special thanks to Dale Sinclair, Richland Avenue Fire Department Chief, Ben Ashcraft investigator, and our many friends and family for their compassion and support during this difficult time.  

     A short graveside service will be held at the Burson Cemetery in Shade at 1:00 pm on Sunday, December 10 followed by a celebration of life and meal at the Shade Community Center. All are welcome.  Friends and family are encouraged to bring Jared’s small creations to be displayed.  

     Arrangements have been entrusted to Hughes-Moquin Funeral Home in Athens, OH.

     In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be sent to the Alexander FFA, C/O Bryan Ford, 5091 Ayers Road, Albany, OH  45710.