John Edward Schlenker, age 82 of Malvern, died Thursday, July 10, 2025, in Benton.  He was born in Malvern on January 28, 1943 to the late Glen Schlenker and Ruth Behrens Schlenker.  The scion of a pioneer Hot Spring County family, he was reared and received his early education in Malvern, later attending UCA in Conway. John was a veteran of the United States Army.  He was in Special Forces and served during the Viet Nam War, stationed in Thailand.  John retired from Reynolds Metals as a maintenance mechanic after many years with the company.  He was the widower of the late Linda Sue Jones Schlenker, to whom he was married on February 14, 1970 in Traskwood.  She preceded him in death on April 1, 2020.

He is survived by his son, Jeffery Cletus Schlenker of Malvern; a nephew, Greg Schlenker of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and by a great-nephew, Coby Schlenker.

John was also preceded in death by two brothers, Phillip Schlenker and David Schlenker.

A private graveside service will be held in Fairplay Cemetery officiated by Reverend Kevin Sims.

Pallbearers are: Jared Haynes, Duane Lambert, Derrick Lambert, Allan Lambert, Kenny Willis, and Darron Jones.

Honorary pallbearers are: Jerod Lambert and the staffs of Finley Pharmacy, Heartland Health and Rehab, and Hospice Homecare.

Memorials may take the form of donations to one's favorite veteran's organization.

Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com.