Obituary of Knud Jensen

Knud Orla Jensen was born in Dybvad, Denmark on December 9, 1928 to Per and Krista Jensen as one of seven brothers and one sister. Growing up in Denmark he was active in soccer and handball. In his 20s he joined the Danish King's Guard and was referred to by the commanding officer as the "Rugbrod Mann" for the rye bread he made. In the early 1950s Knud came to Canada as a Danish baker knowing only how to say "I'm hungry" in English. Shortly after, he joined Ace Construction in the power distribution industry. This evolved into near 40 year career with Calgary Power / TransAlta Utilies as a crew foreman. His supervisors and men described him as hard-working, thorough and fair and someone whose hands never got cold. Many of the people he trained moved into higher positions, but Knud was content remaining foreman as he wanted to continue "working with the men." In 1959 he married Louise Muriel Gray making their home in Edmonton. They had three sons; Kirk, Kent and Craig. They moved to Camrose in 1964 and proudly lived there ever since. Knud was very active in the community. He was a member of the Camrose Lions Club, served a Cub and Scout leader, on the executive and president of the Camrose Figure Skating Club and was a strong supporter of the Battle River Community Foundation. In addition, he volunteered countless times in any of the activities in which his children or wife were involved. Spending time with his grandchildren was always a special joy and time he cherished. On many occasions he was there to watch their soccer, hockey, volleyball, synchronized swimming, dance recitals and graduations. His eight grandchildren have described Grandpa as cool, funny, awesome, a trickster, someone who always had a treat (especially Timbits) and you never got in trouble with. On September 26th he passed away peacefully and painlessly with family and friends at his side. He is survived by his near 15 year long loving partner Hilda Trach and her family; and his children Kirk of Edmonton (Michael, Kira), Kent and Karen of Red Deer (Grant, Maggie, Eric, Kate), and Craig and Kim of Camrose (Casie, Kyna). He was predeceased by his parents, his wife Louise, and seven siblings. He will be forever remembered as a kind, gentle and thoughtful soul who loved his family, friends and especially sharing laughter and time with his grandchildren. He will be missed by anyone who was fortunate enough to have met him. Funeral Services were held on Thursday, October 1, 2015 at 1:00 pm., from The Camrose United Church with Rev. Brian Hunter officiating. Inurnment has taken place in The Camrose Cemetery. If friends so desire memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to The Battle River Community Foundation.