Steven Robert Jensen, age 76, passed away on October 2, 2025 due to lung cancer which was a result of exposure to Agent Orange while serving in Vietnam.
Steven was born April 4, 1949 to Robert Jensen and Joan (Nereson) Jensen. He had one brother, Daniel.
Steven graduated from John Marshall High School in 1967 and after returning from Vietnam attended Dunwoody College in Minneapolis. Steve became a crane operator and was very proud to be a 50 year member of the Operating Engineers Local #49 Union.
Steve married the love of his life, Nancy (Weaver) on June 25, 1983. They were married 34 years before she passed away in 2017.
Several years later after losing Nancy, Steve found love again with Mary Buckingham. Although their time together was not long it was rare to see Steve without Mary at his side.
Steve was a member of East St Olaf Church in Rock Dell, MN. He was proud of his heritage there with his mother being baptized, confirmed, and married there.
There will be a graveside service at East St Olaf Lutheran Cemetery on Saturday, October 11 at 11:00 a.m., followed by a light luncheon and a time of visitation for family and friends at East St Olaf Church. Pastor Paul Thompson will be officiating.
Steve is survived by his constant companion Mary Buckingham, his step-son Brandon, and Brandon’s fiancé Amanda Knutson, and his brother Daniel. Steve is also survived by his beloved dog Zo.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, two unborn children, and the many “critters” that he was so fond of.
Steve’s family would like to thank the staff at Methodist Hospital 6th floor, St Croix Hospice, and Cornerstone Caregiving – especially “his girl” Friday (Akoti).
Arrangements are being handled by Rochester Cremation Services. Memories and condolences of Steve may be shared at rochestercremationservicesmn.com
Sending our deepest sympathy. We have fond memories of Steve at tractor pulls years ago and always enjoyed seeing him. Ted & Shirley Lehmann
I’ll never forget the sign on the end of his driveway. Beware of the owner, not the dogs. I was riding by on horseback and just had to meet him. So glad I did. Gruff exterior covering a very loving heart for people and animals alike.
Rest in peace Steve.
Deepest sympathies. Steve was a ‘country neighbor’ and fellow member at East St. Olaf. He often stopped by the farm on his side-by-side with Zo to chat and tell stories. He lost his voice due to cancer, but it was wonderful that he had found a new one. He had such energy, a great laugh, and such a smile. Steve was always and continues to be an inspiration. He will be missed.