Charles Daniel Jensen Jr.
November 22, 1939 – November 26, 2023
Charles Daniel Jensen, Jr., a devoted husband, loving father, and esteemed member of the community, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 26, 2023 at the age of 84. Born in Brooklyn, NY, to Charles Daniel Jensen, Sr. and Mary Elizabeth Kearney, Charles led a life rich in service, dedication, and passion.
Charles is survived by his beloved wife, Eva Cecelia Jensen, and six cherished children; Mary Jensen, Alexandra Jensen, Andrew Jensen, Margaret Copeland, Edward Jensen, and Emily Flositz. His legacy extends to their spouses and his brother, Peter Jensen. Additionally, Charles leaves behind a beautiful tapestry of descendants, including 15 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of great joy and pride.
Charles dedicated the early years of his life to serving his country with honor and distinction. After leaving from Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy in 1959, he proudly served four years in the United States Coast Guard, followed by five years in the Merchant Marines, where he demonstrated unwavering commitment to duty and a strong sense of patriotism. His professional journey spanned over 40 years in various roles within the automotive technology sector. From sales to teaching, operations to automotive repair, Charles’s expertise and passion for his work left an indelible mark on those he encountered. In 1989, Charles and his family made Lecanto, FL, their home, where he continued to be an active and engaged member of the community, and in 1998 he retired after a successful career.
In his retirement, Charles found joy in giving back, volunteering as a docent aboard the US Victory ship in Tampa, FL. His commitment to preserving maritime history and educating others about the vital role of these vessels was a testament to his enduring sense of duty.
Outside of his professional and volunteer pursuits, Charles had a lifelong passion for stamp collecting, spanning an impressive 75 years. His collection became more than a hobby; it was a means of connecting with a global community of philatelic enthusiasts. Through the exchange of stamps and stories, Charles forged lasting connections and friendships, leaving an imprint on the world that extended far beyond geographic boundaries. Charles Daniel Jensen, Jr., will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for the warmth, kindness, and love he shared with his family and friends. His impact on the community, his dedication to preserving history, and his lifelong pursuit of knowledge through education and stamp collecting leave a lasting legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.
A celebration of Charles’s life will be held on a future date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to one of the following charities in Charles’s honor. May he rest in eternal peace.
St. Jude https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html
ACLU https://action.aclu.org/give/now
US American Victory Ship: https://www.americanvictory.org/get-involved/financial-or-artifact-donations/