Geraldine Jensen

Geraldine Mary Theresa Fitzgerald Jensen passed away peacefully on January 20, 2019. She lived a long, purposeful life, devoted to her family. Gerry was born October 22, 1925, the youngest of Gerald and Pauline (Strohecker) Fitzgerald’s three children. She grew up in Hollywood, California, with her older siblings, Frank and Margaret.

After graduating from Los Angeles Catholic Girls’ High School in 1944, Gerry took a job at Bank of America. Here she met her future husband, Glen A. Jensen, Jr., and they married on February 1, 1948. Glen and Gerry raised their growing family in Arcadia, CA. Gerry was a room mom, scout leader, chauffer, and loving mother to their six children: Linda, Glen III, Judy, Kathi, Kelly and Tom. She was a member of Annunciation Catholic Church for over sixty years. Gerry was a meticulous Homemaker, always enjoying an afternoon break to savor a cup of Lipton Tea and a Hershey bar.

Gerry was an avid follower of Notre Dame football, and Glen was a USC supporter. They enjoyed a robust rivalry and attended many games together. Being a football fan, Gerry was exceptionally lucky as “Poker” in Tom’s football pools. She was also an avid Dodgers fan, and long-time season ticket holder. She often listened to baseball games on the radio, and it was a sad day for Gerry when Vin Scully retired.

After her loving husband, Glen, died in 1989, Gerry kept herself busy. Besides taking care of her home and looking out for her family, she traveled to Europe, China, and Australia. She was a competitive bowler until the age of eighty-nine. Gerry and her friends enjoyed lively conversation during their Monday and Thursday poker games. One of her biggest passions was playing cards and her skills were legendary. She shared competitions with her children and grandchildren, including the always popular “Shanghai.” No matter who the opponent, Gerry always played to win!

Gerry was happiest when she was surrounded by her family. She especially enjoyed the holiday gatherings at her home and made every effort to make them special. Holiday decorations, good food (including her famous homemade fudge), games and laughter were cherished.

Gerry is survived by five children: Linda, Judy, Kathi, Kelly, and Tom. She was preceded in death by husband Glen Jr., and son, Glen III. She is also survived by son-in law Jim, and daughters-in-law Lynn and Kathleen; eleven grandchildren: Adam, Clint, Joe (Tiffany), Matt, Andy, Michael (Caitlin), Emily, Curtis (Theresa), Christina, Mary Kate, and Caroline; three great grandchildren: AJ, Grace, and Theodore; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Gerry was one of a kind and will be dearly missed. May God bless her.

A mass and celebration of life will be held with family members on February 1, 2019. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Geraldine Jensen to the Alzheimer’s Association.