William Lee Jensen

William Lee Jensen "Wild Bill” was born in Huron S.D. on May 13, 1948 to Robert and Marjorie Jensen. He grew up in DeSmet, S. D. with his parents and brothers Scott, and Brad. As a young man he was quite enterprising. He had a paper route, ran a concession stand at the ballpark, and grew cucumbers for the Jolly Green Giant. He received his Eagle Scout award in high school. He went on to attend South Dakota School of Mines and Technology where he earned his degree in Electrical Engineering in 1970 where he also participated in ROTC. He served his commitment in the Army as a reservist and was discharged as a Captain.

He relocated to Peoria Illinois to start his career with Caterpillar in Engine Sales and worked with 2 International Caterpillar subsidiaries. He married Nancy Marie Hovey on January 2, 1971, and together they raised a family living in 4 states and 2 countries and his work enabled him to travel to 47 countries.  He is survived by his wife, Nancy. Children Sonja (John Schaeckenbach), William (Kristen Jensen) Kristin (Michael Kerekygarto) and Melissa (Matt Chilson) Grandchildren Michael Schaeckenbach, Emilee Schaeckenbach, Merideth Kerekygarto, Holden Kerekygarto, John Chilson, Sarah Chilson and Leah Chilson. As well as his brothers Scott and Brad. 

His passion in life was Boy Scouts, and he remained active in Boy Scouts until 2020. One of his proudest accomplishments was the establishment a BSA troop in Singapore for boys whose fathers were transferred there for work.  He received a patch when they celebrated their 45^th anniversary. He also revived a long dormant troop in Illinois that flourished for over 40 years. He devoted his time to scouting in many ways including helping his son and grandson to receive their Eagle Scout award. 

Celebration of Life will take place at Epworth United Methodist Church, 6450 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46220 on Saturday October 21, 2023 with a calling from 1:00pm to 2:00pm and a service a 2:00pm.