Jolene grew up on a ranch along the Black's Fork River in southwest Wyoming. She married Jim Jensen of Rapid City, South Dakota in 1969 and they have three grown children. Julie lives in Denver, John lives in Gillette, Wyoming and Jesse lives in St. Onge, South Dakota.

A lifelong horsewoman and rodeo competitor, she shared her passion for horses with Jim, then all of the kids - and soon the entire family traveling the western states together competing in rodeo. After the kids were grown, Jim and Jolene moved from Green River, Wyoming to their mountain home above Sturgis, South Dakota. There they have horses and a picturesque view of Bear Butte from their deck. Jolene was a member of the Black Hills Mounted Shooters and an avid western art and memorabilia collector, and her deep knowledge of the western cowboy history was unmatched.

She loved to dance, paint, and throw fantastic affairs on their ten acre horse ranch, the most well-known being the annual Cowboy Christmas' party, complete with trap shooting, horses pulling kids on sleds and homemade elk chili. Just below their house is Hog Heaven Campground, where Jim has supervised during Rally Week for the past 15 years. Jolene will be missed by family and friends near and far, her quick wit and storytelling making her always the center of attention.

Jolene died after a brief illness compounded by the effects of rheumatoid arthritis she battled for over 40 years.

In lieu of formal services, the family invites you to celebrate her life at a memorial she would have loved on Saturday, March 23rd at 11am at the Homestake Mansion at 108 Fairview Ave. in Lead, SD. Flowers may be delivered directly to the Mansion.

Cowboys, wear your boots and hats.