James Christian Jensen

James Christian Jensen, age 80, a lifelong resident of Kenosha, passed away on December 2nd, 2024, at his residence, surrounded by the love of his devoted wife, Laurie. Born on November 2nd, 1944, in Kenosha, James was the son of the late Edward and Alice (Smerchek) Jensen. On March 20th, 1983, he married Laurie Pflueger in Las Vegas, and they shared a loving and steadfast marriage until his passing. James dedicated his life to education, teaching Physical Education at Salem Grade School for 33 years and at Bristol Grade School for 17 years. He also enjoyed coaching basketball at St. Joseph’s High School and Westosha Central High School, leaving a lasting impact on his students and athletes. He retired from Bristol Grade School in June of 2024. James found great fulfillment in helping young people grow and succeed, and he was proud of the many lives he influenced over the years. Outside of his career, James was passionate about the water, spending his free time waterskiing, boating, and swimming whenever he could. He also loved traveling the world with Laurie and cherished the time he spent with his family. James is survived by his loving wife, Laurie Jensen; children Jill (Michael Zwirgzdas) Jensen; Jennifer Kozak, and Jaclyn (Chamous) Duhachek, and grandchildren Alice Jensen, Addisen Jensen, Caitlin Duhachek, Madison Duhachek, and C.J. Duhachek; siblings Jay (Edie) Jensen and Bonnie Erickson; mother-in-law Juanita Pflueger; and brothers-in-law Mark (Denise) Pflueger, Scott (Liny) Pflueger, and Steve (Elene) Pflueger. He is preceded in death by his parents. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held in January.