Erik J. Jensen

Madison -- On Sunday, August 17, 2008 Erik J. Jensen passed away while boating and swimming in Lake Monona. Erik was born on June 2, 1968 in Madison to Wade and Marian Jensen. He was the youngest of six children. Erik grew up on the west side of Madison enjoying riding and racing motorcycles. He spent much of his life also enjoying hunting and fishing on the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers with his father and brothers. After graduating from the UW he relocated to Portland, OR to start his career with Lucent Technologies and then on to Evergreen, CO as he climbed the corporate ladder to achieving salesmen of the year, then moving further in his career as he went to Qwest Communications. Erik is survived by his mother and father, Wade and Marian Jensen; brothers, Wade, Mark (Jodi), and Tom (Kim); his sister, Kris Jensen; his aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins; close friends, Michel West of Manville, WY, Kathi Barry of Evergreen, CO, and Terri Peckham of Cottage Grove, WI. He was preceded in death by sister, Karen Marie Davis and husband, Bill. There will be an open visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 6, 2008 at the Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, with church service starting at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Jerry Amstutz presiding. This will be followed by a private burial for family only. Anyone attending is welcome to join us for gathering at the VFW at Lakeside St. & John Nolan Dr. The family would like to thank Dane Co. Sheriff's detectives, Brian Lukens and Steve Wegner; Dane Co. Coroner, Barry Irmen; Dane Co. Dive Team; and our friend, Jim Donnell of the MPD, for their dedication and tireless efforts during this difficult time. We will always remember Erik's unique sense of humor, generosity, big blue eyes and beautiful smile. Erik, you were loved by many, and you will remain in our hearts forever. You will never be forgotten. May you now rest in peace. God made us a family,We need one another,We love one another,We forgive one another,We work together,We play together,And we have faith together,As we will never forget,And always love Karen and Erik.