Jay Donald Menger's Obituary
Jay Donald Menger, a longtime Tulsa Realtor, passed from this life on September 18, 2016. Jay was born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada to Grace Annabelle McMaster and William Donald Menger. Although Jay was an only child, he was raised in a large family home with grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins whom he loved as siblings.Jay attended high school in Niagra, New York, and earned his undergraduate degree at Niagra University. Upon finishing college, he accepted a commission in the United States Army. Jay completed Ranger school and was a decorated war veteran. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his exemplary service in combat during the Vietnam War. He was proud of his service and of his country.After his military service, Jay attended Drury College in Springfield, Missouri. He earned his Masters degree in Business Administration with help from the GI Bill. Upon graduation, he accepted a position in Tulsa and before long, landed in the real estate business.Jay managed and owned successful real estate companies for more than 40 years and as a result, cultivated countless valued relationships. Jay served as president of the Greater Tulsa Association of Realtors and of the Multiple Listing Service. He also served on numerous committees and was well-known and well-loved throughout the real estate community.Jay was active both physically and socially, participating in or contributing much time and talent to many organizations. Some favorites include the Tulsa Ski Club, Tulsa Running Club, San Luis Potosi Sister City program, Leadership Tulsa, Dale Carnegie, and the Jenks Citizen’s Police Academy. In his “semi-retirement” Jay was recruited to take up driving a school bus for the Jenks Public School District. To the surprise of most, Jay thoroughly enjoyed his experiences with the kids he transported and developed many more friendships within the transportation department.An eternal optimist, Jay’s positive outlook was the major factor that resulted in extending his life beyond expectations, allowing for extra time spent with those he most cherished, his children. Jay recognized the great talents and capabilities of each and every one of his children and left no doubt with all who knew him of the absolute love and pride he felt, believing all of his children to be “magnificent!”Jay is survived by his children Michael Jay, Kenneth Alan, David Robert, Elizabeth Grace, John Edward and Christopher Shane; granddaughter Christine Avery; and wife, Kathryn Menger. A memorial service to celebrate Jay’s life will be held at Floral Haven on Saturday, September 24th at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Folds of Honor.
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