Arlene Jensen

Arlene Delores Jensen was born on April 26, 1931, in Harlan, Iowa, to Louis and Esther (Nielsen) Hansen. She grew up in Harlan and graduated from Harlan High School.

On September 4, 1956, Arlene was united in marriage to Richard Jensen at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan. The couple first made their home in Harlan before moving in 1973 to a farm southeast of town, where they continued to build their life together.

Arlene dedicated more than 40 years of her career to Pexton’s Drug Store, where she was a familiar and friendly face to many in the community.

Music was one of Arlene’s lifelong joys. A talented organist, she loved sharing her gift and spending quiet time at home with music, reading, and watching television. She also found comfort and companionship in the presence of her beloved farm cats.

Arlene passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa at the age of 94 years, five months and 11 days. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Richard Jensen.

Arlene is survived by her brother, Richard Hansen of Harlan; brother-in-law, Roger (Susan) Jensen of Loveland, Colorado; three nephews: Allen Jensen, Aaron Jensen and Andrew Jensen; close friends: Cal (Diane) Nielsen of Harlan and Jodi Vanwinkle of Omaha; and many other friends.

Visitation with family and friends will be from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Heartland Funeral Home in Harlan with her graveside service following at 2:45 p.m. in the Harlan Cemetery all on Monday, October 13, 2025. The family will direct memorials.