James N. Jenson

James Neil Jenson, 71, of Fort Atkinson, passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, on Monday, June 23, 2025, following a brief but courageous battle with cancer.

James was born on July 31, 1953, in Ladysmith, the son of the late Norman Jenson and the late Georgean Jenson Banker.

He graduated from Fort Atkinson High School in 1971. In 1984, he began working at Nestlé Purina in Jefferson, where he held many roles over the years and retired after 35 years of dedicated service.

He married the love of his life, Patricia Halverson (née Osier), in Hebron on November 25, 1987. The two had a beautiful life together, enjoying the outdoors, spoiling their grandchildren, and caring for their two poodles. Pat preceded him in death on December 8, 2013.

James was a caring husband, devoted grandfather, dependable friend, and helpful, hardworking colleague. He will be remembered for his intelligence, sharp wit, memorable stories, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. A self-proclaimed “meat and potatoes” guy, Jim claimed to dislike onions; however, some family members had doubts about this claim and liked to sneak them into dishes anyway.

James was an avid sports fan, once telling his granddaughter, “You know I love the ball.” In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, camping, reading, and doing crossword puzzles. He had a passion for history and a knack for trivia, often joking that his brain was full of “timeless knowledge.” Never one to watch a commercial, he was a master of channel surfing. Jim enjoyed going to casinos with his wife, and also took many trips to Las Vegas with family and friends. In his retirement years, he enjoyed listening to good tunes, scrolling TikTok, and spending time with friends at a weekly “choir practice” (a social gathering of retirees – not to be confused with an actual choir). 

James is survived by his stepdaughter, Korry (Roger) Jahnke; brother, Mike Jenson; aunt, Shirley Hraban; granddaughters, Sierra Linton and Kenzie Leith; and great-grandson, Owen Linton. He also leaves behind nieces, nephews, cousins, and many close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; stepdaughter, Laurie Halverson; brother, Ronald Jenson; sister, Mary Davies; aunt, Kathryn Woods; uncle, LaVern Stoker; and grandson, Austin Linton.

The family would like to thank Rainbow Hospice Care for their support and compassion.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 12, from 1–4 p.m. at Proof Speakeasy, 10 S. Water St. W., Fort Atkinson.

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