A giver. A force of nature. A gracious visionary. These are but a few of the many attributes used to describe Keller Williams cultural icon Dave Jenks, who passed away Sep. 14, 2021. As the co-author of The Millionaire Real Estate Agent, The Millionaire Real Estate Investor, and SHIFT, Jenks leaves behind a tremendous real estate legacy, not only touching the lives of 186,000+ current associates, but many others that came before and have followed his thriving career in the industry ever since the 1980s.
Jenks’ imprint on the Keller Williams universe is immeasurable. As the first dean of Keller Williams University and a co-launcher of KW MAPS Coaching, he was a key figure in setting the foundation of learning DNA across the company – all while having a ‘full speed ahead’ approach. In fact, alongside Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, Jenks co-wrote The Millionaire Real Estate Agent in 100 days. Here, current Keller Williams leaders share how their lives have been touched by Jenks throughout the years.
An Abundant Life and Legacy
“He has been a truly beloved member of our KW family for over 25 years, and I know I speak for all of us when I say that we are deeply saddened by his passing,” kwx executive chairman Gary Keller shares. “It has been a complete honor and privilege to partner and collaborate with him for all these years. An amazing teacher and coach, his impact on our company and the entire real estate industry cannot be understated.”
“Twenty years ago when I was starting at Keller Williams, Dave was one of my first instructors,” shares KWRI president Marc King. “I wanted to be like him and loved his passion then, and it only continued through the years. I think of Keller Williams as a Disneyland for real estate entrepreneurs. And for me, Dave will remain one of the greatest ambassadors of our culture, powerfully drawing agents to our brand. Dave deeply loved his family and wife Gina, along with his extended family of more than 186,000 KW associates strong.”
“Dave leaves a remarkable legacy of learning, laughter, and love. He impacted many lives over the course of a remarkable career. He will be dearly missed. But, through his books, his classes, and our KW learning culture he helped shape, his legacy will live on and will continue to help real estate businesspeople everywhere,” says vice president of strategic content Jay Papasan.
Celebrating Dave’s Legacy
“It’s been a great life. What a journey! So many opportunities, so many blessings. I even got to be part of building the greatest real estate company in the world and co-authoring a couple of bestsellers,” Jenks shared in one last Facebook post before his passing. “For everyone, I am sad to be leaving you, but I am so happy for all the memories you have given me!”
Have Dave’s teachings touched your own life and career throughout the years? We invite you to share your thoughts and memories in the comments section below.