Herluf Jensen
August 05, 2023
Herluf HS Jensen
March 7, 1945 - August 5, 2023
There are few roads in Iowa that have not been touched by Herluf’s legacy as a builder.
In the words of his grandson:
My Papa wasn't just a man; he was a legend. As a bridge builder alongside my dad, they crafted more than just structures - they crafted memories, lessons, and dreams for a young child who saw them as nothing less than superheroes. I'd gaze in wide-eyed wonder, longing for the day I could sit beside him in the backhoe, feeling like I was soaring next to Superman. When I turned 18 and stepped onto the worksite with them for the first time, it was as if I was entering the hall of heroes, both humbling and empowering. Seven summers I spent, not just working but absorbing wisdom, perseverance, and dedication from the greatest mentor. And in the end, my Papa, ever the warrior, departed this world in his armor, his work boots, doing what he loved. His legacy stands tall, not just in the bridges he built but in the heart of a grandchild who will forever cherish him.
He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He will be missed. Per his wishes, there was a private family gathering.
Greg Josewski
08/14/2023
Herluf will be missed. His hard work, dedication, humor and character will be remembered by many.
I think that if there was a picture of a true American in the dictionary (or I guess Wikipedia these days), they would absolutely show a picture of Herluf. This great country was literally built by incredible people like him.
Penny, Heather, and the whole Jensen family, you are in our thoughts.
Scott A Kueter
08/10/2023
I remember meeting Herluf at the approximate age or 6 y/o.
Just so happened to be on a highway project in Dyersville, IA USA. Most people know that that town because of the movie site 'Field of Dreams'. Truth be told as a young fella; I remember it of ERTL Toy Factory and Evers Toy Store.
Also, I remember it as a highway interchange project of US20 and Hwy 136.
This project is what brought my construction family and the Jensen family together.....
I remember having dinner with my Grandparents and parents with Herluf at "as I recall" Dicks Steakhouse in downtown 🤣 Dyersville.
Herluf taught me the most amazing trick.... chew up a saltine cracker with your front teeth. Then blow it all over everyone around.
My family and I always laughed and did that once in awhile until I got in trouble for always making a mess in the 'pickup'.
I also remember getting to daily climb up the track frame of that American Crane, walk down that long mile of extruded steel catwalk.... had to be 100 steps protected by the steel pipe and chain railing.... to finally hear Herluf say, "How are you doing today, you lil shit". He let me tag along until I could stand anymore. Watching him pull levers.... as I recall one of them made an air noise as if an air brake pressing sound. Speaking of brakes.... I remember him always slamming a pedal down as he pulled the levers.
Herluf.... I know you will be reading this. Or laughing as I am typing it. From a "little shit" to now 40 years later.... thank you for the daily American Crane Rides! ♥
Shari Sorensen
08/09/2023
Herluf was a member of our Class of 1963 in Exira and will surely be missed by all! Sending sincere sympathy to Penny and the entire family.
Nels Overgaard
08/08/2023
From one stubborn Dane to another, Job well done.