In Memory: Ed Jensen (1945 – 2010)

In Memory: Ed Jensen (1945 – 2010)

Historic racing lost one of its finest on July 15, when Edward (Ed) Jensen passed away suddenly.

Ed's love affair with cars and racing began in high school, working in an Allentown, Pa., transmission shop credited with giving Mario Andretti his first ride and with respected engine builder Jimmy Seidel.

A native of Iowa, Ed attended Grand View College in Des Moines and spent weekends wrenching on his brother Carl's TR3 at SCCA events. He'd later build a Camaro with his friend and SCCA racer Tom Grantham.

In the late 1970's Ed became immersed in sprint car racing after friends Jim and Sandra Rasmussen purchased a car to race in World of Outlaws events with drivers Tim Green and Jeff Swindell. Ed and family often traveled from coast to coast for these races to support their friends.

After a driving school with his brothers, Ed decided it was his turn to race. In 1989, with the blessing of his wife Suzette, Ed purchased a 1967 Camaro Z-28 and spent a year restoring the car for Group 6 competition. With the help of Steve Philipsen and Collector Motorsports, the car was ready for racing in 1990. Ed was named SVRA Driver of the Year in October 2009.

Ed's accomplishments stretch far beyond racing. He served in the 11th Armored Cavalry, Black Horse Division from 1966 to 1968 and is a Vietnam Veteran, serving the Helicopter Unit from 1967 – 1968. He pursued a career in data processing and founded his own IT company, Associated Computer Systems, Ltd., in 1980. Ed sat on many advisory panels and commission for the likes of IBM and AVNET. He was also on the Board of Directors for the Goldfield Telephone Company. Grand View University recognized Ed as a "Distinguished Alumni," and invited him to serve on their Board of Trustees. Ed sold his company in 2009, ready to spend his retirement traveling the country to races with his wife.

In addition to his wife, Suzette, Ed is survived by brothers Richard, Carl and David, as well as his daughter Laurel Farrell, her husband Lance Farrell and two grandchildren: Collin and Jocelyn. He is preceded in death by daughter Jennifer Lynne, who passed away in 1989.

Those who had the pleasure of working and racing with Ed will miss his vivacious spirit and generous heart. He was a true gentleman with an infectious enthusiasm for the sport. For all his admirable qualities, it is probably Ed's smile that will be missed most – it was the brightest in the paddock. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, family and friends.

A Celebration of Ed's life will be held on Friday, July 23, 2010, at Luther Memorial Church in Des Moines, Iowa. Visitation will be at 9 a.m. followed by a Memorial Service at 10 a.m. Lunch will be served at the church following the service.

Luther Memorial Church,
1201 Grandview Avenue
(515) 262-1392

The family requests Memorials in Ed's memory be given to Luther Memorial Church or Grand View University at 1200 Grandview Avenue, Des Moines, IA. 50316.