"Darrell was a great friend in high school inEyota. I admired his athletic skills in football basketball and baseball. I also admire his kindness and friendliness he was a great friend. Our prayers are with Darrell and his family."
In loving memory of
Darrell Jensen
April 1, 1941 - August 26, 2020
Darrell F. Jensen, otherwise known fondly by many as Butch, 79, of Rochester, Mn died Wednesday, August 26 at St. Mary's Hospital. Darrell was born on April 1, 1941 to Joseph and Ella (Meyer) Jensen in Rochester, Mn. Darrell grew up and attended school in Dover-Eyota. On August 20, 1966 he married Rosa K. (Buchheit) Jensen, and in 1968 they welcomed their son Daniel. They were married for 23 years.
Darrell served in the United States Army. He was honored to be selected to serve at Arlington National Cemetery as part of the ceremony unit supporting fallen Vietnam soldiers, while John F. Kennedy was President. As part of his unit, he participated in funeral ceremonies; performing duties such as carrying the casket, folding the flag, presenting the flag to next of kin and the rifle volleys. Darrell cited many times the honor it had been to serve his country, and shared with family and friends his experiences at Arlington National Cemetery contributed to a significant part of his life leading to a renewed faith in God.
After his time in the military, Darrell worked as an industrial painter at Saint Marys Hospital, and at nuclear and coal fired power plants, including many towering smokestacks. This work required extensive travel throughout Minnesota. To be closer to home Darrell transitioned to residential painting and had a much sought after talent for wallpapering, including many prestigious local and commercial buildings in the Rochester area.
Darrell loved fishing, carpentry, and all sports including baseball, basketball and football. Always kind and compassionate, he loved spending time with his son, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Darrell was skilled not only in interior and exterior painting, but also in woodworking, drywall, and carpentry; leading to many hours on additions, remodels, new construction, and whole house renovations with his son Daniel and several close friends and family.
Darrell is survived by his son Daniel (Christine) Jensen, and three grandchildren, Donovan (Charleston, SC), Timothy (Winona) and Claudia; one sister, Dorothy (Dave) Brown, Dale (Lucila) Jensen, and Neal (Sandy) Jensen all of Rochester, Mn. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Joe, Lowell, and an infant brother Duane.
A celebration of life service will be held graveside on Tuesday, September 15th 2020 at 1:30 pm at Grand View Memorial Gardens 1300 Marion Rd SE, Rochester MN with full military honors. Afterwards, a reception for family and friends will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to the Rochester American Legion Post #92.