Theodore “Ted” Jessen, 84, Beach, died Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at St. Benedict’s Health Center, Dickinson. Ted’s Memorial service will be at 10 a.m., Wednesday, September 19, 2012 at Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson, with Pastor J.T. Burk. Military honors will follow with the Dickinson Honors Team. Inurnment will take place at the Sunny Slope Cemetery, Mott. Visitation will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday at Ladbury Funeral Service.
Theodore Jessen was born December 15, 1927, at Bowbells, the son of Reuben and Christine (Neve) Jessen. He was raised and educated in the Niobe and Kenmare area, graduating from Kenmare High School in 1945.
He joined the United States Navy and served honorably for two years. Following his discharge he returned to North Dakota and began a lifelong career in the grocery business. He had grocery businesses in several communities in western North Dakota.
Ted married Marion Paulson on December 11, 1953 in Minot, and her death occurred on October 12, 1974. He was united in marriage to Phyllis (Olstad) McManigal on July 3, 1989 in Medora, and for the past 10 years they have made Beach their home.
He enjoyed horses, fishing, and traveling. He belonged to the 7th Cavalry, the American Legion, and the VFW.
Ted is survived by his wife, Phyllis; three children, Sally (Alex) Simanovicki, Reno, Nev., Steven (Patty) Jessen, Las Vegas, Nev., and Susan (David) Milner, San Antonio, Texas; five step-daughters, Lori, Louette, Deanne, Dawn and Lyn; three brothers, LaVern (Donnie) Jessen, Dickinson, Bruce (Patty) Jessen, Dickinson, and Jim Jessen, Wise River, Mont.; three grandchildren, Sara (Greg) Ellstrom, Jesse (Julie) Jessen, and Dakota Jessen-Kyles; seven step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; four step-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Carol Jessen, Minot; and brother-in-law, Rudy Halabuk, Ramona, Calif. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marion; sister, Allene Halabuk; and brother, Darold Jessen.
