John Ernst Semken Jr.

CHARLESTON John Ernst Semken, Jr., died at the age of 72 on February 5th, 2015. He was born on September 22, 1942 in Charleston, SC., son of the late John Ernst Semken, Sr. and Florene Turner Semken. John lived his boyhood days on Anson Street in downtown Charleston and later moved to James Island where he attended James Island High school. He graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1970 with a BS degree in sales management. He subsequently served in the Air Force, including a tour of duty in Thailand during the Vietnam War. John loved the game of golf even at an early age when he caddied at the Municipal Golf Course which provided experiences he loved to tell about. As a fellow Scotts Lawn Product Sales Manager, he enjoyed not only sales but also meticulous lawn care. John took great pride in his sales profession and was awarded top salesman for many years. He joined the insurance industry in 1990 as an Independent Insurance Agent. He had the privilege of developing close relationships while serving his clients with their insurance needs. John will be greatly missed by his wife, Mayrelle. They were married 46 years and lived throughout the United State before settling in Stono Ferry Plantation in Hollywood in 2002. John and Mayrelle enjoyed many trips to amazing places both here and abroad. He was deeply adored by his daughter and son-in-law, Heather Semken Schwartzberg and Brian Schwartzberg of Daniel Island. His four grandchildren, Brandon, Andrew, Brooke and Campbell Ernst will dearly miss their beloved “Poppy.” He has two sisters, Barbara Jackson of Summerville married to Allen Jackson ,and Susan Barnett of Carlsbad, CA. He is remembered by an extended family and friends who share fond memories of John's life and amicable spirit. A visitation and Memorial Service will be held at First (Scots) Presbyterian Church, 53 Meeting Street, Charleston SC , at 2:00 PM on Thursday, February 12, 2015. John was an active member and previous deacon of the church and was enriched by the fellowship and worship there. In lieu of Flowers, a memorial can be sent to the Leukemia Society, P.O. Box 4072, Pittsfield, MA. 01202, or to First (Scots) Presbyterian Church Generation Fund, 53 Meeting ST, Charleston, S.C. 29401. Arrangements by PALMETTO CREMATION SOCIETY, 11 Cunnington, Ave., Charleston, SC 29405, (843) 722-2555. Online condolences may be shared at www.palmettocremationsociety.com