Gary Jensen, age 73, of Flandreau, SD, passed away on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at United Living Community in Brookings, SD.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at Messiah Lutheran Church in rural Flandreau east of Trent, SD. Family present visitation from 6:00PM to 8:00PM with a prayer service beginning at 8:00PM on Monday, October 21, 2024 at Skroch Funeral Chapel in Flandreau, SD.
Gary Eugene Jensen was born on December 9, 1950, in Dell Rapids, South Dakota. He was raised on the family farm southeast of Trent, SD, where he developed a deep appreciation for rural life.
Gary attended Trent Elementary for his early education and graduated from Pleasant Prairie Country School after completing the 8th grade. He continued his education at Flandreau High School, where he graduated in 1969. After a year at South Dakota State University, Gary joined the National Guard in 1972, proudly serving for six years.
A lifelong member of Messiah Lutheran Church, Gary demonstrated his strong faith. He began his dedicated career at John Morrells/Smithfield in 1972, where he worked for 45 years in the Department of Hog Grading and Quality Control, retiring in the summer of June 2017.
In November 1972, Gary was united in marriage to Deon Duncan, and together they were blessed with three daughters: Amy, Jodi, and Kimberly. He took immense pride in his daughters and cherished his four grandchildren: Ashton, Aidan, Reece, and Carson.
Gary enjoyed riding horses, attending rodeos, and all things western, including his cowboy boots. He enjoyed farming, raising cattle, and sharing stories. He loved making people laugh with a good joke or two and his stunning smile lit up any room! His high school memories held a special place in his heart, and he treasured the many friendships he cultivated throughout his life. Most importantly, he loved and cherished his beautiful family.
Gary is survived by his three daughters, Amy (Al) Austreim of Brookings, SD; Jodi Jewett of Mesa, AZ; and Kimberly Jensen of Denver, CO. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Ashton and Aidan Austreim, and Reece and Carson Jewett; his sister, Lynelle (Leonard) Heinemann; and his brother, Bruce (Shirley) Jensen. He is survived by his nephew, Brad Heinemann and nieces, Laura (Chris) Weber and Rebecca (Sloan) Unwin, and many close relatives and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Gordon and Alice Jensen.
Gary’s family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Orchard Hills of Dell Rapids, Edgewood Memory Care Assisted Living, and the United Living Community Center both of Brookings for their loving and compassionate care. They also thank AsceraCare Hospice for their invaluable resources and support during this time.
