Wayne Jensen, 75, Winona

Wayne Jensen, age 75, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023, at the Winona Health Hospital due to complications from a long, hard-fought battle with cancer.

He was born in Albert Lea to Earl and Margaret (Olsen) Jensen and grew up on a farm and was a graduate of Blooming Prairie. He was proud to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged.

After returning home from service, he married Julia (Smith) Wichmann, and they had three children; they later divorced.

Wayne operated Country Side Tires in Ellendale for 17 plus years and later transitioned into the transportation industry as an over the road truck driver for the next 35 years; mainly driving to the East Coast. He was still driving, for Manning Transfer Inc., until his passing. He enjoyed meeting and visiting with people all over the United States; making friends wherever he went.

Wayne had a great belief in God which was evident as one of his semi-trailers had the image of a cross and the scripture for John 3:16. He was not afraid to witness to others about his faith or share in deep conversation in search of the Christian truth, always willing to learn more about his faith.

He enjoyed sharing his favorite pastimes with those around him, baking pies, a good red wine and playing cribbage. He had a green thumb for lilies, rose bushes and indoor plants from which he propagated and gave to people he met. His favorite spot was on the Mississippi River fishing for whatever would chase his Rapala or Dare Devil lure.

He is survived by his former wife, Julia (Jensen) Wichmann; daughters, Penny (Roger Jirele) Jensen and Emily (Rashad) Mahtab; three grandchildren, Rhyse, Rayven and Garrett; brother, Bruce (Donalie) Jensen; nephew, Chris; two nieces, Kimberly and Kelly and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Larry and his son Thomas Daniel Jensen.

Services will be private with interment at the Blooming Prairie Cemetery. Everyone who knew Wayne is encouraged to celebrate his life in their own way. Fishing, spreading the “good word” or “Baily’s with a shot of coffee” seems appropriate.

Visit boldtfuneralhome.com for information and guestbook.