Derek Jensen

Derek Thomas Jensen, age 41, of Yankton, SD, passed away on January 31, 2026, at his residence in Yankton, SD. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Eidsness Funeral Home in Brookings, SD. A Visitation will be held the night prior from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm of Thursday, February, 5, 2026, at Eidsness Funeral Home in Brookings.

Derek Jensen was born on March 1, 1984, the son of Tim and Vicki (Roach) Jensen. He was raised in Aurora, SD, Derek attended and graduated from Brookings High School in 2002. He later pursued education in landscape design, completing his studies in 2004 from South East Tech.

Professionally, Derek worked in a number of career paths. He worked at Outlaw Graphics, Country Club Green Keeper and Pizza King in Brookings. Then at Overhead Door, LCH, and at Applied Engineering in Yankton, SD. His strong work ethic and versatility were evident to all who worked alongside them.

As a child, Derek was very active at First Lutheran Church, where he was deeply involved in church life and community activities. A loyal Chicago Bears, Cub, Tar Heels and Michigan fan, Derek also enjoyed sports podcasts, card games, chess, and friendly competition in about everything imaginable. Known as a smart player with a kind heart, he will be remembered as an exceptionally nice person. Always the guy to give a lending hand.

Giving back was important to Derek. He volunteered with Special Olympics, helping coach the basketball and softball teams. Above all, Derek enjoyed doing anything and everything with his family. He loved spending time with the kids cooking and having backyard competitions, where laughter and connection mattered most. He coached his kids’ sport teams, attended and supported all of their sporting events, and found joy in mentoring and encouraging the kids. A lot of this comes from his own competitiveness.

Derek is survived by his parents, Tim and Vicki (Roach) Jensen; the mother of his children, Jessica Anderson; his children, Eli, Frankie and Abel and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who all love him dearly.

He was preceded in death by grandparents Al and Carol Roach, Knute and Bettie Jensen.

He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, competitive spirit, and the positive impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.