Dale W. Jensen (Willy), Roseau May 18, 2026

“Willy” (age 65) also known as “Wild Willy” to friends and competitors was born to Robert and Bernice Jensen September 20, 1960, in Farmington, Minnesota. Willy started farming as soon as he could walk and pool building at age 16. He was very involved in the Dairy project with 4H as well as a leader within the FFA chapter.  His personal farming interest started in the sweetcorn business when he hired his younger siblings to sell sweetcorn door to door. He excelled quickly in the pool business, so much so that he established his own business, “Rochester Pool and Spa” where he installed pools and spas and repaired Polaris snowmobiles.  He trained a multitude of people to install pools, including two of his nephews: Brian and Hans.  After moving away from the brick-and-mortar business, he continued to contract install pools for various pool companies.  Eventually, his farming background came to him once again, through a purchase of property in Roseau, Minnesota where he spent the remaining years of his life growing rye and soybeans.

Willy raced snowmobiles on the ice for many years…and again inspired future generations to join in the chaos.  He cherished these friendships deeply.  Family always seemed to be cheering him on or racing by his side. Several years he was sponsored by Polaris.

Willy was an avid hunter of deer, bear and pheasants. He hosted yearly hunting groups to his land to get their bounty of venison. He also fished mainly in the wintertime as he shared his talent to fishing and maintaining equipment at Zippel Bay.  He would often treat friends and family to a fish fry.  He also supplied his sister and aunt with rye and red wheat from which they made various breads.

In early 2023 Willy faced his biggest competitor, lung cancer.  He participated in trials to help future patients and struggled to fight the fight.  He fought bravely through many stints of pneumonia and various surgeries. On May 18, 2026 Willy took his last ride and went out of this life in “Willy Style”.  His truck forged on when he was no longer in control.

Willy was preceded in death by Grandparents: Axel and Alma Jensen, Theodore and Loraine Pahl; Parents: Bob and Bernice Jensen; and brother Bernard Jensen.  Willy is survived by siblings: Jane Smith(Kirby-D), Kenneth Jensen(Patti), Doris Wilson(Steve), Beverly Rydeen(Bruce), Jerome Jensen, Sarah Matasosky(Jack), Mary Morgan(Gary), Thomas Jensen(Lori) and Kathleen Herness(Eric). Nieces and Nephews who all enjoyed playing with their fun uncle: Zack, Mike, Jon, Amy, Nicole, Marc, Brian, Brenda, Tasha, Keith, Nick, Jackson, Brian, Samantha, Lindsay, Kelsey, Hans and Heidi, special friends: Pam Siple, Tim Bjerk and “Vern”(Tom) Paulson.

We will miss you when we don’t hear any rebuttle to a comment that we make….. God Speed Willy.

Please join family and friends remembering and raising a glass Saturday, May 30 2-6pm at Gene’s Bar and Grill, Roseau, MN.

Last modified: 05/26/2026