Willard Jensen
Willard S. Jensen
December 4, 1937 – May 26, 2026
Willard S. Jensen, 88, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on December 4, 1937, Willard was raised in Ruskin, Nebraska, where he developed the values of hard work, humility, and service that would define his life. He graduated from Peru State College in Peru, Nebraska, and later earned his master's degree from Northern Illinois University. Those accomplishments marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to education and investing in the lives of young people.
Willard devoted more than 35 years to the Osceola Public Schools in Osceola, Nebraska, where he served as a respected teacher. Beyond the classroom, he was instrumental in developing the girls' track and field program, serving as its longtime coach. He influenced generations of students and athletes, many of whom carried his lessons far beyond the track.
On June 3, 1962, Willard married June Schirmer. Together they built a loving home and raised two sons. June preceded him in death on May 7, 2003, after more than 40 years of marriage.
He later married Trudy Jensen of Wichita, Kansas. Together they built a wonderful life and shared more than 20 happy years. They were devoted members of Antioch Christian Church, where their faith and church family became an important part of their lives.
Willard was preceded in death by his first wife, June Jensen; his parents, Esther and Addis Jensen; and his brother, George Jensen.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Trudy Jensen of Wichita, Kansas; his son Chris (Lisa) Jensen of Genoa, Nebraska, and their son, Jamie Jensen; and his son Doug (Jessica) Jensen of Nashville, Tennessee, and their daughters, Elise and Lila Jensen.
Above all else, Willard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, coach, and friend. His greatest joy came from watching his family grow and celebrating their accomplishments. He was known for his quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and gentle spirit. Whether in the classroom, on the track, or at church, he left every life he touched better than he found it.
His legacy lives on through the countless students he taught, the athletes he coached, the friends he made, and, most importantly, the family he loved so deeply. He will be dearly missed, forever remembered, and always loved.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Antioch Christian Church in Wichita, Kansas.
Memorial contributions may be made to:
Antioch Christian Church
3741 W. 15th St N, Wichita, KS 67203
