Jerome Robert Jessen

Jerome Robert Jessen

April 20, 1944 – October 2, 2026

Jerome “Jerry/Jess” Robert Jessen, affectionately known to family and friends as “Bub,” passed away peacefully to be with the Lord on Friday, October 2, 2026, at the age of 82.

Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, on April 20, 1944, Jerry was the cherished son of Edward O’Connell Jessen and Agnes Marie (Hjelmeland) Jessen. His father always fondly reminded him that he was a very special gift, delivered on his parents' wedding anniversary. Following his graduation from Harding High School, Jerry answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. His naval service included a year and nine months at sea during the era of the Cuban Missile Crisis before receiving his honorable discharge.

Upon returning home, Jerry met Judy Coates at a local dance—a meeting that marked the beginning of a beautiful life together. They were married on June 25, 1966, celebrating 60 wonderful years of marriage. Jerry spent many years working in the Coates family business, Coates Trailers and Rentals, before launching his own business as an independent dump truck driver. Over the years, his truck was a familiar sight across the Twin Cities metro area as he contributed to countless local infrastructure and development projects.

Driven by a lifelong passion for horses that began in his youth, Jerry fulfilled a dream by building a custom log home on ten acres in Hugo, Minnesota, establishing a beloved hobby farm for his family. Over the years, he raised Quarter Horses, Tennessee Walkers, and one stubborn pony named “Bucky,” passing along his love for riding and country living to his children and grandchildren.

Jerry’s life was firmly rooted in his Catholic faith. A dedicated parishioner of St. Genevieve’s Catholic Church in Hugo, he sang in the choir and actively participated in parish events and fundraisers. Known for his spiritual generosity, Jerry was always quick to offer prayers and arrange a Mass intention for anyone in need, whether family, friend, or acquaintance.

God makes each person unique, and there was truly no one quite like Jerry. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and unforgettable "Jerryisms" and "Bub" remarks that will bring smiles to his loved ones for generations to come.

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Judy; his children, Nicole (Bill) Tschohl and Chris (Amy) Jessen; and his six beloved grandchildren: Cecelia, Elisha, Olivia, Piper, Jeremiah, and Cooper. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Agnes Jessen; his sisters, Betty Jessen and Mary Reisinger; and his brothers, Francis Jessen and Mark Jessen.

Service Information

      Visitation: Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

•       Funeral Mass: Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Parish Community Center (PCC) of St. Genevieve and St. John the Baptist                                        Church in Centerville, MN, with Fr. Esty presiding. A luncheon will follow at the Parish Community Center.
• 
  
•       Interment: Friday, November 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
• 
  
•       Celebration of Life: Friday, November 13, 2026, 12:00 p.m. at the St. Paul Yacht Club clubhouse. 375 W. Water Street, St. Paul, MN 55107
• 
  
• In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jerry’s honor to your favorite charity.