Larry Jenssen

Larry Jenssen, of Goodyear, AZ passed away peacefully as the sun rose on February 4, 2022, at the age of 72. He was surrounded by family as he lost his fight due to numerous health issues including Mantle Cell Lymphoma.

Larry was born on November 6, 1949, in Rugby, North Dakota on his brother, Pete’s, first birthday to Harold “Jens” and Joyce (Bowersox) Jenssen. He was raised on the farm outside of Wolford, York, and Leeds, where he also attended and graduated Leeds High School.

Larry married the love of his life, Judy College, on March 25, 1970, prior to leaving to serve his country in Vietnam.

Upon his return from Vietnam they farmed near Wolford, North Dakota started their family which included three children; Holly, Nikki & Josh. Larry left the farm and enjoyed a 27-year career with Brown & Root by running a dragline in McClusky, North Dakota and finished as Project Manager in North Carolina. His career with Brown & Root took them many places and they met many friends that became extended family. Upon his retirement from Brown & Root, Larry spent the next three years with Commercial Contractors. Not quite ready for the retired life, Larry then finished his career with Rummel Construction in Arizona where he worked for the next 10 years as a Superintendent. In his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, going to the mountains to find cooler weather, traveling to Reno to visit his grandchildren, and going back to North Dakota to visit family.

Larry was a friend to everyone he met. Always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need whether he knew you or had just met you for the first time. Larry had a personality and heart larger than life. If you every had the chance to meet him he was an unforgettable man. He truly was a one-of-a-kind person.

Larry shared his life with his wife of almost 52 years, Judy; his children, Holly Lujan (Richard), Nikki Olsen (Keven), and Josh Jenssen (Melissa); six grandchildren, Ryan and Kyle Lujan, Calliope Olsen, Austin and Aubrie Hoffman, and Landin Jenssen; brothers, Pete Jenssen, and Jodey (Kathy) Jenssen; his sister, Pam Schrader; sisters-in-law, Marlene (Ray) Koble, Sharon (Dorence) Cote, Donna Hageness, JoAnn Bergson, Dianne (Jim) Sisson, Dessie (Pat) Scott, Sandi Lettenmaier, and Candy (Wayne) Scherr; and brothers-in-law, Gary (Paula) College, Gail (Laurie) College, Bruce (Diana) College, and Tim Danielson; and a whole lot of amazing nieces and nephews and wonderful friends.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Joyce Jenssen; in-laws, Edward and Harriet College; his grandparents; sister-in-law, Patsy Danielson; and brothers-in-law, Alan Schrader, Ted Lettenmaier, Harlow Hageness, and Bruce Bergson.

A Celebration of Life will be held will be held at the Cotton Lane RV Park, 17506 West Van Buren, Goodyear, AZ on February 19, 2022, from 1pm to 3pm. A service will be held at a later date in North Dakota.