Donald Fred Jensen

Donald Fred Jensen, Sr.

10/08/1927 - 02/25/2017

Donald F. Jensen, Sr., 89, passed away on February 25th, 2017, surrounded by his children and grandchildren. A lifelong resident of Fife, he never lived more than a few miles from his parents' home on Fife Heights. Even so, Don saw parts of the world where few Americans ever venture. In 1946, he was a crew member on the longest tug and barge tow in maritime history. Don recounted the three-month trip in his 2008 book, "From San Francisco to Shanghai". He graduated from the University of Washington and finished officers training in the USAF. During his first 35-year career, Don worked for Foss Launch and Tug Company, which took him to Alaska, Hawaii, Norway, and even Egypt and the Sudan. His second 35-year career brought him back home to partner with his brother Paul in several businesses, including plastics manufacturing and marine/industrial salvage. Don's homes away from home were his cabin outside of Clinton, MT, and his regular booth at Johnny's at Fife. A devoted father and grandfather, Don rarely missed a track meet, band concert, or fishing trip. His friendliness and generosity influenced many hundreds of people throughout his life, old and young, stranger, friend and family, and he will be sorely missed.

Don is survived by his friend of over 50 years (and former wife), Alicia Allen Barr, his children Mark A. Jensen of Poolesville, MD, Don F. Jensen, Jr. of Olympia, and Marya H. Jensen, of Fife, his daughters-in-law Holly A. Jensen and Kathleen H. Jensen, five grandsons, two granddaughters, and the young men and women of the Fife Heights Social Club.

A memorial is scheduled for Sunday March 12th at 3:30 pm at Foss Waterway Seaport, 705 Dock Street, Tacoma, Wa 98402, to honor this wonderful man.

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