She was born in Mt. Prospect, IL December 11, 1925 the daughter of Arthur and Emma (Bornkamp) Linnemann.
Vi served as a switchboard operator at Illinois Bell Telephone Co. and that is where she met Robert O. Jensen. They married September 7, 1946. Bob preceded her in death May 28, 1988. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Susan Helene Veit in 1999, her parents, two brothers; Arnold and Arthur Linnemann and her sister, Elvera Hammer. Later, Vi worked at Sears and Roebuck in Springfield.
Vi was a strong women of faith and a devoted member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and School.
Fondly referred to by many as Grandma Vi, she loved the children and found great joy in helping wherever needed. She gave aid to all the teachers, helping students with reading, and other areas of education. She was honored to serve on the Board of Christian Education and was featured in the 2007-2008 Our Savior’s Lutheran School Yearbook for her devotion to the children, the teachers, and quality Christian education. “You are not alone”, “You don’t ever have to be afraid because God is with you” Her words comforted many Vi’s many church “hats” were too many to mention.
She also volunteered her time in the community. She was happy to assist families in the Memorial Hospital Surgical Waiting Room because she was grateful for the kindness they showed her. The list of the activities and groups Vi enjoyed is too long to mention for fear of omitting anyone.
Vi’s family meant everything to her. She was a devoted “Football Mom” was the family “record keeper” knowing everyone’s birthday, wedding anniversaries and her family lineage and history. Vi was an avid reader, loved bible study, and enjoyed crocheting, solving crossword puzzles, playing card games such as bridge, pinochle and solitaire. She learned technology and enjoyed keeping in touch with family and friends through Facebook. She always had a smile and encouraging words to her family and friends and ready to lend an ear. She will be truly missed by all her knew her.
She is survived by her children: Karen Pacheco of Springfield, Robert “Bob” (wife Ginny) Jensen of Overland Park, KS. Thomas “Tom” Jensen of Lebanon, IL, and William “Bill” (wife Cindy) Jensen of Normal, IL. She has eleven grandchildren, twenty-one great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. Vi outlived her siblings and cousins. She considered all of her nieces and nephews as her own children, including the children of extended family.
Family and friends are invited to a memorial visitation at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and School 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd. Springfield, IL on Monday, March 4, 2024 beginning at 12:30 pm until the time of a memorial service at 2:00 pm. Her son, Pastor William Jensen will officiate along with Pastor’s Brenden Harrell and Joshua Traxel. Inurnment will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery at a time to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Eagle Opportunity Fund c/o Our Savior’s Lutheran School 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd. Springfield, IL 62704
Please visit the Tribute Movie at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where online tributes and condolences may also be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West. 217-544-5424
