Leonard Melvin Jessen was born October 25, 1936, to Andrew and Elsie (Andersen) Jessen. He was a lifelong resident of the Anita area. He passed away on February 24, 2021, at the age of 84.
He married Dixie Sheumaker on December 13, 1953. She passed away in March of 1987. On March 10, 2004, he married Darlene Dorsey.
He started his career in trucking by driving for his father before he had his driver’s license! He worked for Shaffer and Sons for 39 ½ years. While there he drove a gas truck and took great care detailing cars, among other duties. During this period of time he also operated Jessen Trucking, hauling livestock and grain for local farmers. After Shaffer’s closed he worked at Western Engineering as a truck driver for 20 years.
Leonard will be missed by many as he made friends easily and was loyal and generous with his time and money. He was always so willing to help others.
He also enjoyed his time with family. He loved his grandchildren, taking them on many adventures as they grew up. The destination was always so many hills away! They also did singalongs on the way! They still wonder how much that doggie was in the window!
He had a passion for cars and the “game” of purchasing them. He was known as the great negotiator! Watch out car dealers in heaven!
He is survived by his wife, Darlene; his children, LeAnn (Allen) Josephsen, Bobbi (Chuck) Poirier, Melissa Appenzeller; stepsons, Clint Dorsey and Lesile (Ronda) Dorsey; nine grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren. And sisters, Evelyn (Ray) McAfee, Irene (Gary) Nelson; and brother, Ron (Michelle) Jessen. Also many beloved nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Elsie Jessen; his wife, Dixie; his son, John Jessen; his brother, Gailyn; sister-in law, Georgia Jessen; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
Graveside services will be held on Tuesday March 2, 2021, at 11:00 a.m., at the Evergreen Cemetery in Anita. There will be a luncheon following the service at the Weathervane in Anita.
Hockenberry Family Care in Anita, Iowa, is in charge of the arrangements.
