Marlene Jensen

Marlene Jensen, 89, of Glenville, peacefully passed away on December 25, 2024, at the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Mankato, MN.

Born on September 24, 1935, in Alden, MN, to Lester and Vivian (VanDeer) Klukow, Marlene dedicated her life to her family and her passions. A graduate of Albert Lea High School, Marlene married Richard E. Jensen, on June 1, 1954, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, where she remained a devoted lifelong member. Together the couple raised two daughters: Debra and Joy. Known for her strong work-ethic, Marlene worked at the former National Tea Grocery Store and later at Ventura Foods.

Marlene cherished her time spent outdoors, enjoying camping, bonfires, and the delightful presence of wildlife around her home, especially the birds and squirrels that she nurtured. A true lover of games, she spent countless hours playing cribbage, word games, and tackling Sudoku puzzles, always proving to be as sharp as a tack.

Above all, Marlene was a dedicated mother and a doting grandmother whose love knew no bounds. She found immense joy in spending time with her family, often spoiling her grandchildren and making every moment together a treasured memory. Her home was her sanctuary, where she found peace in her own company, yet her heart always welcomed those she loved. Marlene will be remembered not only for her unwavering love and kindness but also for her remarkable ability to always be right.

Those left to cherish Marlene’s memory include her daughter, Debra Jensen; grandchildren, Kaleb (Tracy) Bjornstad, Justin Bjornstad, and Jessica Bjornstad (Seth Kleven); great-grandchildren, Kyra and Hailey Bjornstad and Kade and Kian Kleven; siblings, Jerry (Sandy) Klukow, Bonnie Linde, and Roger (Ruth) Klukow; a brother-in-law, Jim Jensen; numerous nieces and nephews; several extended family members and many friends. 

In addition to her parents, Lester and Vivian Klukow, Marlene was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; daughter, Joy Bjornstad; brothers, Dick, Dennis, and Jack Klukow; father and mother-in-law, Palmer and Florence Jensen; and a brother-in-law, Bob Jensen. 

The family will host a memorial service at 11:00AM on Friday, January 10, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, with a visitation beginning one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Freeborn Co. Humane Society, P.O. Box 423, 101 Eddie Cochran Street, Albert Lea, MN 56007.