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John Jensen Obituary
May 14, 1946 - Mar 3, 2025
John Philip Jensen, known as "Phil" and lovingly to his granddaughter as "Pappou," passed away on March 3, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born on May 14, 1946, in Gary, Indiana, to John Philip and Julia (Magyar) Jensen. A graduate of Andrean High School (Class of 1964), Phil went on to study French and German at Indiana University, earning his degree in 1973. In 1970, he married the love of his life, Veronica "Roni" Remes. With a powerful and intense bond, they built a life surrounded by things they enjoyed-books, food, and art-dreaming, discussing, and joking together.
Phil was a senior instrument technician and instructor. He apprenticed at U.S. Steel and later worked for many years D.C. Cook Nuclear Power Plant, from which he eventually retired. His enthusiasm for learning extended far beyond his profession-he was a lifelong lover of literature, languages, mathematics, and physics. These interests led him to start his own rare book business, Proteus Bound, and he spent many years sharing his passion for book collecting with the community, often seen selling his finds at Chesterton's European Market.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Roni. He is survived by his son, Dylan, daughter-in-law Alison, and his much-loved granddaughter, Milena. He also leaves behind his siblings, Julie Mansfield, George Jensen, James (Maggie) Jensen, and Janice (Jack) Churilla, as well as many nephews, nieces, friends, and his devoted feline companion, Tchotchke.
Visitation will be held at Moeller Funeral Home in Valparaiso on Sunday, March 9, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Student Center in Valparaiso on Monday, March 10, at 10:30 AM. Interment to follow in Chesterton Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Phil's memory may be made to the Independent Cat Society of Westville or St. Teresa's.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Jensen
Sponsored by The Times.
6 Entries
Michael marasco
March 12, 2025
condolenes
The Bekelya family
March 8, 2025
Jan and family. We are very saddened to hear of your brother's passing. Our sincerest condolences to you all. May his memory be eternal.
Gary and Linda Ronjak
March 8, 2025
We were so sorry to hear of Philip's passing. Our sincere condolences to his family and many friends. I met Philip years ago when he was selling books at the European Market in Chesterton, not long after his beloved wife passed, and we bonded over our mutual love for books, literature and art. We would frequently have breakfast, lunch or dinner when we could continue our conversation about our families, mutual interests, and our love of the dunes area. He was beset by many medical problems over the years but was hoping to regain his health enough to be able to once again sell books at the European Market this year. I will miss his friendship, our talks and shared difficulties in growing old as two elders still curious and looking ahead. May his family find peace and strength during this difficult time.
Kathy Tassone
March 7, 2025
Dear Jan and Family,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family on the passing of your brother. May he rest in eternal peace. Kathy Tassone
Dianne Urbanski Rewerts
March 7, 2025
I am so sorry for the loss of your brother Phil, I haven´t seen him since I graduated from high school in 62. My prayers for your peace peace are being sent.
Patrick Shrader
March 7, 2025
Phil was a kind and thoughtful neighbor. It was a privilege to know him. We'll him forever.
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