LeRoy Harold Jenson

LeRoy Harold Jenson, born on December 7, 1949, in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, at an assisted living facility in Santee, California surrounded by his family. He succumbed to a long battle with bladder cancer, a condition linked to exposure to Agent Orange, which he faced with remarkable strength and resilience.

LeRoy lived most of his adult life in San Diego, California, and was a steadfast presence in the lives of those who loved him. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Linda. 

LeRoy’s legacy continues through his children: daughter Jessica Jenson and sons Jeremy Jenson (Sarah) and Jeff Jenson (Carrie). He cherished his role as a grandfather, loving his grandchildren, Jaden, Jayli, Audrey, and Natalie. They will always remember the car trips, fishing trips and nurturing strong family ties.

He was also part of a large and loving family which includes his siblings, Dorothy Rosman (Bernie) of Lake Park, Minnesota; Mary Hewitt of Fargo, North Dakota; and Shirley Ament (Les) of Minnesota. LeRoy held a special place in the heart of his mother, Frances Jenson, who will be celebrating her 101st birthday in March and will remember her son with deep affection. He was preceded in death by his father, Roy Jenson, who passed away in 1994.

LeRoy always had a deep love for classic cars. From the moment he first laid eyes on a shiny 1957 Chevy Bel Air, he was captivated by classic vehicles. LeRoy dedicated countless hours restoring, showcasing, and driving his collection of classic cars, which were more than just vehicles, they were a reflection of his passion and love for the history and simpler times they embodied. He restored vehicles from boxes to a perfect classic vehicle. Friends and family remember weekends at car shows, the sound of old engines roaring back to life and recall fondly the joy LeRoy took in sharing stories about his favorite classic cars. When he sold his last 1957 Chevy just a week before passing away, he proudly mentioned that he had owned nine over the course of his lifetime. His all-time favorite being the first red and white hardtop 1957 Chevy, which he always treasured.

Beyond his love for classic cars, LeRoy was a kind-hearted soul who never hesitated to lend a helping hand. He was self-less and always willing to help without asking for anything in return. Since he was a welder by trade, at the Classic Hangars at Gillespie Field, he was known by others as “Welder to the Stars” evidencing his exemplary welding skills.

LeRoy's life was enriched by the friendships and connections he cultivated throughout the years. He will be remembered with great fondness by many family members and friends, each of whom experienced his kindness, humor, and unwavering spirit.

The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the oncology team at UCSD for their dedicated care and support throughout LeRoy's ten-year journey with cancer. An intimate honors ceremony will be held at the end of January, where LeRoy will be laid to rest at Miramar National Cemetery, a fitting tribute to a life well-lived.