Kenneth Richard Jensen

Kenneth Richard Jensen, 85, of Waterloo, was born on March 18, 1925 in Oelwein, Iowa. He was the son of Alexander and Elizabeth Helm Jensen. Kenneth graduated from Oelwein High School in 1942. He served as a diesel mechanic in the South Pacific Fiji Islands with the U.S. Navy during World War II. After returning home from the Navy, Kenneth began working for Great Northwestern Railroad in Oelwein. Kenneth later worked for John Deere Tractor Works in Waterloo, where he retired as a General Supervisor in May, 1982. Kenneth married Beverly Young on September 23, 1949 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Waterloo, where they were both members. Beverly died on August 21, 1992. Family was Kenneth’s life. He enjoyed cars, camping and fishing in Wisconsin, mechanics and woodworking. Kenneth also loved singing, making people laugh, and had previously taught guitar. He especially enjoyed having breakfast and lunch at Jeorgi’s in Waterloo. Kenneth served on many committees at his church, was a 40 year member of the Board of Trustees and was a member of the American Legion. Kenneth died on Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at Allen Hospital following a short illness. He was preceded in death by his wife and his brothers, Floyd Jensen and Dale Jensen. Kenneth is survived by his children, Steven (Cathy) Jensen of Pleasant Hill, IA, Jacquelyn (John) VanKamen of Denver, IA and Lloyd “Sam� (Pam) Jensen of Ridgefield, CT; 7 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. As a show of sympathy, the family suggests memorial contributions be directed to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Waterloo.