Wilda Mae Jensen, age 98, formerly of Tomah, WI, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 11, 2024 at Heritage Court Memory Care in Eau Claire, WI. Born on September 20, 1926, in Tomah, WI, to John and Laura (Spooner) Betthauser, Wilda’s life was one of devotion, hard work, and joy which she shared generously with everyone around her.
Wilda’s early years were spent in the rural beauty of Wisconsin, where she attended Tunnel City Grade School and later graduated from Tomah High School in 1944. Wilda was united in marriage to Robert C. Jensen on May 5, 1945. The couple began their life together farming near Wyeville, demonstrating the resilience and dedication that would be a hallmark of their marriage.
After their time on the farm, Wilda worked at Fort McCoy before they ventured into entrepreneurship by purshing the Mobile gas station, which they owned for nearly nine years. Their business ventures didn’t stop there; they also owned and operated the Jensen Hardware Hank store for almost 18 years. Wilda’s work ethic was unmatched, working side by side with her husband until their retirement in 1975.
Retirement did not slow Wilda down; instead, it opened a new chapter of adventure and service. She and Bob spent 18 cherished winters in Arizona and enjoyed trips to Venezuela, Hawaii, and Alaska. She later cared for Bob for many years after a stroke left him partially paralyzed.
Wilda’s interests were many and varied. She found joy in volunteer work, crocheting, music, dancing, card playing, bingo, and knitting, creating beautiful pieces that are cherished by her family and friends. Her love for puzzles, whether they were of the crossword or jigsaw variety, reflected her sharp mind and patience.
A woman of faith, Wilda was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Tomah. She served in various capacities, including the United Methodist Women’s Group, Candlelight Circle, United Peacemakers, and Tarr Valley Homemakers. Her commitment to her church and community was unwavering. Wilda also enjoyed the camaraderie of her card and birthday clubs, where she shared many laughs and good times.
Wilda’s legacy is lovingly carried on by her family: daughters Linda (Ron) Wood-Riesterer of Eau Claire, WI, Sandra Bass of Cherokee, IA, and Laurie Engel of Tomah, WI; her seven grandchildren, D.J. (Betty) Wood of Rice Lake, WI, Robert (Sonya) Wood of San Antonio, TX, Julie Wood of Trenton, TN, Ryan Wood of Chippewa Falls, WI, Heather Quint of Loveland, CO, Frank (Carol) Quint of Clarion, IA, and Olivia (Zayne) Wicks of Sioux City, IA; her cherished great-grandchildren; her adored six great-great-grandchildren; and brother-in-law, Don Tralmer.
Wilda was preceded in death by her parents, John and Laura; her husband, Robert C. Jensen; brother, Alan (Arlene) Betthauser; brother-in-law, Les (Arlene) Jensen; and sisters-in-law, Patricia Tralmer and LaVaughn Gold.
Wilda’s family would like to thank Touch of Home in Tomah as well as St. Croix Hospice, and a special thank you to Heritage Court Memory Care in Eau Claire for their exceptional care for our Mom for more than five years. Donations are encouraged to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, October 25, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Tomah. Pastor Claudia Deede and Pastor Fran Hewuse will officiate. Burial will follow in the Greenfield Cemetery. Family and friends are invited for visitation on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. The Torkelson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
The Torkelson Funeral Home
