Paul A. Jensen

Paul Arthur Jensen, 80, of Evansville, passed away on Monday, June 26, 2023. He was born on April 12, 1943 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to the late Howard and Jane (Krieter) Jensen. He was a 1965 graduate of Evansville College and earned his Master’s in Physical Education Administration in 1967 from Illinois University. While at UE he swam for the Original Aces swimming/diving team. His accomplishments in the pool were quite impressive. During the 1964 season, he was the Indiana Collegiate Conference (ICC) champion in two events. He set a new conference record in the 200-yard butterfly and was a member of the record-setting 400- yard Medley Relay. In the 1965 season, Paul repeated as a double winner at the ICC championships again setting new records in both the 200-yard butterfly and as a member of the 400-yard Medley Relay as the Aces won their first conference championship. At the National Championships, he attained his 2nd All American certification being a member of the 400-yard Medley Relay that placed fifth. Jensen returned to his alma mater in 1974 as the Director of Aquatic Programs, which included both University and community swimming instruction plus coaching. Through his programs. It is estimated over 15,000 students benefited from his coaching and guidance. He was the shot clock operator for the men’s and women’s Aces games from 1985 to 2021. Paul was inducted into the University of Evansville Athletic Hall of Fame in 1998. From 1982 through 2012, Jensen was a full-time Professor. In 1985 he was selected to serve as Chair of the Department of Human Kinetics and Sports Studies (HKSS). He served in this capacity until 2005. During his tenure as Chair, the number of students majoring in the HKSS department rose from 28 to 320.In May of 2012 at the age of 68, Professor Jensen retired and earned Emeritus status voted on by his fellow faculty members. Paul served on the boards of the American Red Cross, WNIN, Thunder on the Ohio/Freedom Festival, Evansville Trails Coalition, Evansville Bicycle Club, SWIRCA, and AAU state board. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Judith (Ansburg); daughter, Rhonwyn Nance (Fred) and their children, Aulden Nance and Grasen Nance and daughter, Jennifer Herrell (Brad) and their children, Nolan Herrell (Jordan Merrill) and Carson Herrell. Friends may visit on Friday, June 30, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Alexander East Chapel. Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderEastChapel.com.