Obituary of Robert H. Jensen

Robert H. Jensen, age 91, passed away on Thursday, April 30th, 2020 after a lengthy illness. He was born and raised in Chester, PA, and later moved to Wallingford, PA, in 1959, where he resided for 57 years. He was a 1945 graduate of Chester High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics in 1950, from Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, VA, where he was a charter member of the Theta Chi Fraternity. It was during his junior year at a college dance, that he met the love of his life, Priscilla. They were married 2 years later in 1951. In 1968, he received his Master’s Degree in Human Relations from the University of Pennsylvania. Beginning in the 1950’s, he worked for 15 years at the Sun Oil Company in Philadelphia. In 1968, he joined the faculty at West Chester State College as Assistant Dean of Men and Director of College Events. During his 20 year career, he held many positions, one of which was Advisor to the Theta Chi Fraternity. He retired in 1988 from West Chester University. Bob had a variety of hobbies; he definitely did not let any moss grow under his feet!! Beginning in the 1970’s, he volunteered for fifteen years with his local Republican Party, working the polls, and making sure people got out to vote. He enjoyed watching professional baseball and football- he was a huge Eagles fan and spent many Saturdays enjoying football games at the local High School. He shared his love of music, especially of the big band era, with his daughters. He enjoyed collecting over 2,000 record albums, listening often in his spare time. He fell in love with doing magic tricks (he picked this up from his father- in- law, who was a Magician) and became a full time Magician when he retired- performing for seniors, schools, birthday parties, and for his family! He was a member of the Delaware Valley Conjurer’s Club where he was treasurer for 25 years. He was a coordinating member of the Chester High School Class of ’45 reunion committee for decades. Until recently, he was an active member of his college alumni association. Every year in the fall, Bob and Priscilla would return to Randolph-Macon for Homecoming weekend. Bob loved to entertain seniors with his professional music program – playing big band music- and ending the program with “name that tune” for a grand prize. He loved telling a good joke or pun and was always reading books on puns and jokes. He would often laugh at his own jokes which made them even funnier! After he retired, he learned how to use a computer and spent many happy hours doing family research. He was fascinated to find out where his family came from and how everyone was connected. An animal lover, Bob cherished taking care of his dog, P.J., and his cats, Teddy and Buster. He enjoyed spending time with his family and many friends. He was affectionately called ‘Poppy’ by his family. He was a very loving, kind, and caring person who will be dearly missed. He is predeceased by his wife Priscilla (Torrance) Jensen; his parents Frank and Margaret (Cardwell) Jensen; his older brother Frank and his wife Jane; and many dear friends. He is survived by three daughters: Susie (Dave) Kolva of Wallingford, PA; Karen (Michael) Alvarado of Coatesville, PA; and Sharon Jensen of St. Petersburg, FL. Also survived by his grandchildren: Ryan (Laura) Carl of Waterford, NY; and Katie (Tim) Swierczek of Media, PA, and two great-grandchildren; Timothy Swierczek and Cora Swierczek. A second great-granddaughter is expected to arrive in July 2020 to Ryan and Laura Carl. He is also survived by two beloved nieces and their families. Funeral Services and Burial are private, with a public memorial service to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Providence Animal Shelter, 555 Sandy Bank Rd., Media, PA 19063.