Vernon L. Jensen

Vernon L. Jensen, 88, Woodstock, died Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2015, at his home.

He was born Jan. 31, 1927, to Forest and Edna (Barnard) Jensen in Woodstock. 

On Sept. 10, 1949, he married Mary Lou Vogel, the love of his life, in Greenwood.

He attended Woodstock High School before serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II. 

He was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church, Woodstock. Jensen’s Plumbing and Heating was opened by his father, “Rusty” Jensen in 1942. He worked with his father upon his return from the Navy, building up the company, and then purchased the business from his father in 1972. He ran the business until his retirement in 1994, but he still kept an interest in the day-to-day operations. 

He was past president of the Lake and McHenry County PHCC (Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association), also serving as past president of the Illinois PHCC. He was active in the community as a member of the American Legion and VFW. He was a Shriner and a member of the Masonic Lodge. 

He was a lifelong Packer fan, and he enjoyed wintering in Arizona with his wife and many friends. While he was there he attempted to improve his golf game. He enjoyed spending his summers at Lauderdale Lakes and fishing with his wife.  One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren and sharing in their accomplishments. He was loved by many and will be dearly missed.

Survivors include a son, Allan (Kathy) Jensen; a grandson, Matthew Jensen; and a granddaughter, Meghan Jensen.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; a son, Craig Jensen; and two daughters, Susan and Cara Jensen.

Visitation was Feb. 22 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home. The funeral was Feb. 23 at First United Methodist Church, Woodstock. Interment was at the McHenry County Memorial Park Cemetery with military honors offered by Woodstock VFW Post 5040.

Memorials can be made to First United Methodist Church, VFW Post 5040 or JourneyCare Hospice.