Joan Emily Jensen, affectionately known as Jo, passed away on July 19, 2024, in Bloomington, MN. She was born to Bertha and Otto Norgaard on October 28, 1930, in Polk Township, Iowa. A strong independent woman who loved her family and friends, she did so in a way that made a difference in all the lives she touched. ‍

Jo was a cherished member of the Norgaard family, sister to the late Elinor (Don) Paulson and the late John Norgaard. In 1950, she married Warren Jensen and started a family. Although they entered the marriage with the best of intentions, it was less permanent than expected. Supporting her family and eventually pursuing a career as a bank teller became her focus. A graduate of Albert Lea High School in 1949, Jo dedicated her early life to her family at home. She had interesting experiences working at the telephone company and other jobs before focusing on her growing family. She eventually went back to work and was a valued bank teller for over 20 years.

‍ Jo’s love confirmed and encircled her three sons, Ward (Jacque) Jensen, Mark (Mia) Jensen and Paul (Jennifer) Jensen, who remember her as a loving and unwavering supporter who always had their best interests and futures in mind. Her five grandchildren, Ann, Jake, Emily, Odelia, Elias, three great grandchildren Asher, Zoey, Gemma, and Mark’s God Daughter Ah’lure carry her legacy of love and joy.

‍ While she dedicated her life to raising her three sons and then took particular joy in being part of the lives of her grandchildren, she did find joy in other activities. Whenever her sons moved or had a new addition of some sort she loved to visit and help settle in or catch up on the new situation. This happened on both coasts and sometimes stretched overseas! She also enjoyed traveling with friends by cruise ship, bus tour and the occasional road trip. One bit of legacy she left us was from her talent and love of cooking a few signature dishes. Her daughters in law were all taught to cook her Italian meatballs, there are still requests for her rhubarb jam and it is an ongoing effort to properly recreate her oatmeal raisin and chocolate chip cookies. The best rendition of her cookies currently goes to Jacque!

‍ Predeceased by her parents, her brother John and her sister Elinor, Jo’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and a community that was better for her presence.

‍ Services to honor and celebrate the life of Joan Emily Jensen will be held on August 1, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Christ Presbyterian Church, located at 6901 Normandale Rd, Edina, MN. Prior to the service, at 12:00 p.m. Jo will be inurned in the Christ Presbyterian Church columbarium.

‍ Speakers will include Pastor James Madsen and her son Paul. Others touched by Jo will also share memories and reflections of her life. They will include her daughter-in-law Jennifer, daughter-in-law Jacque and grandchildren Emily and Odelia.

‍ Joan Emily Jensen will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know her.