Larry D. Jensen, age 77, of Kimball, died Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, at the St. Cloud Hospital.
Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, at St. Anne Catholic Church with visitation one hour prior to the service. Fr. Thomas Olson will be the Celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Anne Cemetery.
Larry Dean Jensen was born on April 20, 1947, in St. Cloud, Minnesota to George and Dorothy (Magnuson) Jensen. Larry lived his whole life in the Kimball area. He grew up on the family farm south of town while attending school. As a boy, Larry was a member of Kimball United Methodist Church and later became a member of St. Anne Catholic Church. He was a 1965 graduate of Kimball High School. After his graduation, Larry honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Upon his discharge, Larry attended St. Cloud State, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degree in education. On June 20, 1970, Larry was united in marriage to Lois Rathje at St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Annandale. They made their home in Kimball, along with their children. Larry’s teaching career began and ended in Kimball, where he taught economics and social studies, in addition to coaching.
Larry embodied the spirit of community and connection. He was a steadfast supporter of the Kimball Cubs at sporting events, especially when his granddaughters played. His role as a proud grandfather added immeasurable joy to his life, and he cherished every moment spent with his family.
An avid social butterfly, Larry thrived in the company of friends and family. He delighted in visiting with loved ones at their cabin on Lake Sylvia, where he found peace in the natural beauty surrounding him. Fishing trips became cherished adventures, filled with stories and laughter. Larry leaves behind a legacy of kindness, joy, and an everlasting impact on the lives he touched. His gentle spirit and warm smile will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Larry is survived by his wife of 54 years, Lois of Kimball; children, Kelli (Tom) Schreiner of Kimball, Eric Jensen of Minneapolis, and Arizona; five grandchildren, Paiten (Morgan) Rask, Taylor and Sidney Schreiner, Kiera and Isaac Jensen; brother, George (Diane) Jensen of Melrose; two nephews, Ross and Kevin Jensen; and many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Larry’s grandchildren served as urn bearers. Jolene Faber-Andrusick will provide the music for the service.
Arrangements are entrusted with Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Kimball.
The obituary, guestbook, video tribute and service webcast are online at www.dingmannfuneral.com.