Alvira “Vi” Jensen (née McFarlane), age 95, of Chetek, WI passed away peacefully on January 10, 2025 at Mayo Clinic Health System Chippewa Valley in Bloomer, WI, with family by her side. She was born on October 18, 1929, in Chippewa Falls, WI, to Orin and Saphronia McFarlane. Vi was raised in New Auburn, WI and graduated from New Auburn High School in 1947. In January, 1949, Vi married Earl Stanford, and together they made their home in Chetek, where they lovingly raised their family until Earl’s passing in 1975. She later married George Jensen in March, 1977. George and Vi spent 25 years together living in Amery and Chetek until his passing in 2002.

Vi was preceded in death by her parents Orin and Saphronia, her husbands Earl Stanford and George Jensen, and her beloved son, Donald (Stanley) Stanford. She is survived by her daughter, Debra (Tom) Runkle, and her son, Scott (Chris) Stanford. Her legacy of love and faith lives on in her grandchildren: Jason (Angie) Runkle, Courtney (Bill) Knickerbocker, Kelly Runkle (Brian Olson), Brandon (Bree) Stanford, Danielle (David) Foster, and Blaze Stanford; and her cherished great-grandchildren: Olivia, Madeline, Brantley, Everett, Harlow, Elias, Camden, and Eli.

A lifelong member of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, now known as the Community of Christ Church, Vi lived her life guided by her deep faith in God. She was an active participant in many areas of church life, devoutly studying scripture and sharing her faith with others. Her steadfast love for God was evident in her actions and her words of encouragement to all who knew her. Vi dedicated much of her life to serving her community. She worked for 30 years at Knapp Haven Nursing Home in Chetek and spent many prior years waitressing at Bob’s Grill also in Chetek. Her heart for service extended into retirement as she volunteered for more than 25 years at the Chetek Senior Center, preparing meals and joyfully offering her time to help others. She found purpose and fulfillment in serving those around her and considered it a privilege to do so.

Vi loved to travel, embarking on adventurous bus trips, visiting family in Arizona, and enjoying time playing cards and polka dancing with friends. She was also an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers, cheering them on with enthusiasm, and sometimes, frustration.  In her final years, Vi resided at Dove Healthcare Center, where her compassion, wisdom, and outgoing personality continued to shine. She never missed an opportunity to join in group activities, venture out on special community outings, and offer words of faith and support to nursing assistant student graduates. She was truly a friend to all, offering a warm welcome and a kind heart to all she encountered. Above all, Vi’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She delighted in attending her children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s activities - whether sports games, concerts, or school programs - offering unwavering support and unconditional love. She loved nothing more than to hear tales and stories of her family’s accomplishments, adventures, and endeavors. Her kindness, faith, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.

Vi’s family extends their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the staff at Dove Health Care Centers in Rice Lake and Bloomer and the Mayo Clinic Health System in Bloomer for the compassionate, loving care provided. A celebration of Vi’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 29th, 2025 at The Community/ Senior Center in Chetek, WI with Greg Harm officiating. Visitation will begin at 2:15 p.m. with a memorial service to follow at 3:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to a luncheon following the service at The Community / Senior Center to continue their joyous remembrances of Vi.

Last Update: Jan 15, 2025 1:05 pm CST