Jensen, Marilyn L.

Marilyn L. Jensen, 86, died Monday, May 31, 2010, in her sleep with family close by. Services will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday in Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories, Cedar Rapids. Entombment in Chapel of Memories Mausoleum. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. Thursday to service time at the chapel. Arrangements by Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home.

Surviving to honor her memory are two sons, Robert (Karen) of Clarence, and Gary (Theresa) of Cedar Rapids; grandchildren, Robert M. Jensen, Jennifer (Danny) Spiker, and Joshua and Alex Jensen; great-grandson, Sage Spiker; and a special niece, Sara (Paul) Soglin of Madison, Wis.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Lucyle Falconer; and other members of her family who Marilyn considered her own.

Marilyn was born April 3, 1924, in Cedar Rapids, to German-Scotch Irish parents, John A. and Anna (Baer) McGowan. She attended McKinley High School in Cedar Rapids. She married Robert W. “Bob” Jensen on July 3, 1942. They shared a wonderful life together for 67 years before “Hardrock's” passing late in 2009. The family knew that Marilyn would not want to be alone without Bob at her side.

Marilyn was an extraordinary woman who experienced many things in life; she lived in West Virginia during World War II while Bob was serving his country, helping the war effort as many Navy brides did in those times. After returning home with Bob she worked for various businesses until she found employment at Collins Radio Co. To say that Marilyn enjoyed her job was an understatement because this is where she met the many life long friends that helped enrich her life and touch so many more hearts. Marilyn's workplace was her social world where she watched so many of her friends raise their families, enjoying the good times and the tough times. She was proud to be a part of the “Space Program” and had the opportunity to meet some of the astronauts where she was recognized for her talent.

Marilyn was the matriarch of the family and for everyone who knew her; she will be remembered for her great sense of humor and magnetic personality. Her work ethic was incredible and to those who knew her well, appreciated the fact that she was not shy about giving advice or letting you know how she felt. She embodied compassion and would always lend a hand in need. Marilyn raised a family known for the love of the outdoors. She enjoyed being a member of Eastern Star and Daughters of the Nile. Marilyn shared Bob's passion for the outdoors and became accomplished in trapshooting as they traveled to the many competitions around the state.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

Special thanks goes to the staffs at Cottage Grove Place, Essence of Life Hospice Care and Cedar Memorial.

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