Mary K. Jensen

Mary K Jensen, 101, Bismarck, passed away on Saturday, April 9, at Good Samaritan Care Center. Services will be held on Tuesday, April 12, 2011, at 11:00 AM at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, with Pastor Marvin Winstryg officiating. Cremation has taken place. Interment will be held in the Bowbells Community Cemetery at a later date. Mary Kathleen Martin Jensen was born in a sod house on the North Dakota prairie on January 9, 1910, the fourth child of William Cook Martin and Josie Ida Bramblee Martin. She grew up in Burke County and graduated from Bowbells High School in 1928, after which she attended Aakers Business School in Grand Forks. She returned to Bowbells and worked as a secretary in the County Court House. Later she served as the secretary of Carter Township for over 20 years. In 1931, Mary met and married Alfred J. Jensen. Together they raised five children: Russell deceased, Helen Edon Nelson, Bismarck, ND, Hazel John Haberlock, Laurel, MT, Beverly Edwin Blumhagen, Bismarck, ND, and Bill, Renton, WA. They began their life together living and farming with Alfred's parents and later purchased their own farm in Carter Township, Burke County. In 1965 Mary and Alfred retired to Minot, while enjoying many winters in Arizona. Alfred passed away in 1990. Mary continued living in Minot and driving her own car until 2006 when she moved to Bismarck, residing at Edgewood Vista assisted living facility. Over the years, Mary's family continued to grow, leaving her with 13 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. While there are many fond memories of "Grandma Mary", the most commonly shared memories are of her cooking and endless stream of baking, along with her game playing; particularly cards. Mary continued to play a good game of pinochle up beyond her 100th birthday. She took pride in her quick wit and appearance. Mary belonged to the Bethlehem Lutheran in Bowbells, and the Augustana Lutheran in Minot where she was active in the Church Circle and the Quilters. She will be truly missed by her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred; her son, Russell; her parents; and one great-grandson.

Mary K. Jensen

January 9, 1910 - April 9, 2011