Barry John Jenson

Barry John Jenson, age 77, of Columbia Heights, Minnesota, passed away on March 15, 2026.

Barry was born on November 29, 1948, in Whitefish, Montana, to Wallace and Dorthea Jenson. He grew up in Alexandria, Minnesota, and moved to Minneapolis to attend Roosevelt High School for his senior year. He later attended the University of Minnesota, where he studied Urban Studies.

Barry was united in marriage to Karen Martinson on November 11, 1982, at Lake Nokomis Lutheran Church. Together they made their home in Minneapolis and were blessed with two sons, Brian and David. In 1995, they moved to Hastings. Following retirement, they moved to Columbia Heights in 2021 to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Barry was lovingly cared for at The Ridge at Blaine Memory Care Community from October 2024 until the time of his death.

He spent the majority of his career in wholesale heating and plumbing with Goodin Company and later worked for several years at Target. Barry generously gave much of his time helping at church and participating in Mission Mexico and other service trips through his church and community. He enjoyed spending time outdoors camping, canoeing, and practicing photography. He was always involved in his children’s activities, serving as a coach, Cub Scout den leader, Sunday School teacher, and helping Brian with the Hastings Lacrosse Club by serving on the board.

Barry enjoyed drawing and had always wanted to be an architect. He was an admirer of Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs. He fondly remembered the light blue Volkswagen Beetle his father gave him in his early twenties, as well as his motorcycle, often saying he hoped to get another one in retirement. Barry also participated in wrestling in high school and was an avid broomball player. He had a great love for dogs. His German Shepherd, Valiant, whom he had before he met Karen, was his first faithful companion. Barry and Karen later had Harley, a German Shepherd/Beagle mix, and Boomer, a black lab, during their years in Hastings.

Barry is survived by his loving wife, Karen; his sons, Brian (Annie) Jenson and Dave (Becky) Jenson-Tveit; and his grandchildren, Kirby, age 7, Wrigley, age 5, and Durham Jenson, age 2; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Calvin (Cal); and his sisters, Martha (Marty) and Mary.

A celebration of Barry’s life will be held on Monday, March 30, at 12:00 PM at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street, Hastings, Minnesota 55033, with a visitation from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association or to an animal shelter of your choice.

Barry was typically quiet but very sociable. He will be remembered for his kindness, selflessness, and his endless desire to help others.