Kendall Oliver Schlenker

Kendall Oliver Schlenker May 12, 1933 – February 22, 2026

New Mexico has lost one of its most accomplished and interesting citizens, Kendall Oliver Schlenker.

Kendall was a man of faith, a star athlete, a pilot of balloons and small aircraft, a diplomat, philanthropist, patron of the arts, and an attorney of sterling reputation for more than six decades. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He was born May 12, 1933, in a German community in West Texas. After spending part of his childhood in California during the war years, he returned to attend Eastern New Mexico University. He played both football and basketball on athletic scholarship and was elected student body president as a write-in candidate. ENMU later honored him with its Outstanding Alumni Award.

While in Portales he met and married Wilda Ingram. Their 57-year marriage was the foundation of the life they built together and the family they raised.

Kendall graduated from the University of New Mexico School of Law in 1957 and began practicing in Farmington. He later earned a Master of Laws in Taxation from New York University. Over his distinguished career he argued multiple cases before the New Mexico Supreme Court and successfully argued a case before the United States Supreme Court — a rare achievement for any attorney.

His expertise in tax and estate law made him one of the region’s most sought-after advisors. He also helped shape New Mexico law through legislative work, mentored countless young attorneys, and taught courses at the University of New Mexico’s Anderson School of Management.

Beyond his legal career, Kendall was known for his faith, his generosity and civic involvement. He supported churches, businesses, artists, and charitable causes throughout his life and served as a member of the New Mexico Amigos, representing the state internationally.

Wilda preceded him in death in 2011. Kendall later married Andrea Schlenker in 2013, and they lived in Los Lunas, New Mexico, until his peaceful passing on February 22, 2026.

He is survived by his wife, Andrea; his three children, Julie Case (Bill), Cindy Davies (Pat), and Kenyon (Zoe); stepdaughter Nancy, eleven grandchildren, Sam, James, Kendall, Timothy, Phillip, Christian, Andrew, Stephen, Luke, Lily, and Helen; and eight great-grandchildren. Kendall is also survived by his brother Charles (Ann) Schlenker.

After more than 60 years in the law, Kendall leaves behind far more than a successful legal career. He leaves behind the many lives he guided, mentored, and helped along the way. His legacy will live on through his family and the countless people touched by his quiet generosity and wisdom.

Kendall’s memorial service will be held Saturday, May 2 at 10:00 AM at City on a Hill Church, 3715 Silver SE, Albuquerque.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the UNM Law School, Kendall O Schlenker Endowed Scholarship.