LEROY A. JACOBSEN

Leroy Jacobsen

March 8, 1942-February 20, 2025

 Leroy Allen Jacobsen, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully on February 20th, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family and community.

Leroy was born on March 8, 1942 in Luverne ND to Edna (Ihry) and Viggo Jacobsen. He was born into a hardworking farm family and grew up in Luverne ND. He was the middle child of five children. Leroy carried those strong values of commitment and service throughout his life. 

On July 27, 1963, Leroy married the love of his life, Bertha Kainz at St. Agatha’s Catholic Church. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising two children Teresa and Tab, 5 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren, and dancing together every chance they got.

Leroy was a man of many talents and a dedicated worker. He started on the family farm, later owned a butcher shop at the Hope Locker Plant before owning and operating Jacobsen Oil alongside Bertha. He also served as a rural mail carrier, delivering more than just letters, he delivered kindness, humor, and a friendly face to those along his route. He was often known as the “Best Mail Carrier Ever.” His commitment to his community was undeniable, serving as the fire chief for 25 years and running the chains and keeping stats at high school football games.

He was a man with a heart as big as his presence and his humor was unmatched. Leroy never knew a stranger as his heart and home were open to all, and his kindness left an impression on everyone he met. He had a quick wit and a one-liner for every occasion, bringing laughter to family, friends, and even those he had just met. Whether it was jokingly answering a child’s question with “up ta ickabrickabythelemmea” or reminding loved ones to “take your time leaving and give her hell coming back,” Leroy’s words always carried warmth and humor. He was happiest when his house (and garage) were full of family and friends with big meals on the counter, kids running everywhere, and cards being played at the table. 

Leroy loved his time in the men’s bowling league, fishing in Canada with the guys, going dancing with Bertha, playing with his grandkids, and could often be found in his woodshop, creating magnificent keepsakes. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his family whether it was taking drives, going out dancing with Bertha, working on projects in his woodshop, playing cards, taking golf cart rides, or simply telling stories, Leroy cherished every moment with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His skilled hands created not just magnificent woodworking pieces but also countless treasured memories for those he loved.

Leroy’s impact on his community, his family, and his friends will never be forgotten. His legacy of love, laughter, and generosity lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. Though we will miss him deeply, we find comfort in the many memories he left behind.

Leroy is survived by his Children; Teresa Mitzel of Eagle, ID, Tab Jacobsen of Hope, Grandchildren; Jordan (Brogan) Mitzel of Nampa, ID, Taylor Mitzel of Eagle, ID, Bailey (Nic) Pfiefer of Fargo, ND, and Bo Jacobsen of Hope, ND; Siblings; Renee (Jack) Dale of Colorado Springs, CO, Debra Kroeplin of Hope, Great Grandchildren; Kallen, Charlotte, Chloe, Treyson, and Jace, In-laws: Betty Ewing of Fargo, Ed Kainz of Hope, and Patricia (Larry) Satrom of West Fargo, Fay Kainz of Weaver, AL, Jim Jacobson of Finley, Nancy Kainz of Hope, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his Wife: Bertha Jacobsen, Beloved Grandson; Brady Jacobsen, Daughter-in-law; Heather Jacobsen, Son-in-law; Bruce Mitzel, Parents; Edna and Viggo Jacobsen, and Siblings; Betty Ihry and Jerry Jacobsen, In-laws; Jim Ihry, Marlin Kroeplin, Bonnie & Everett Skinner, Bob & Janet Kainz, Jim Ewing, Clarence Kainz, Marj Kainz, Marlys Jacobson & Mike Kainz. 

 Visitation will be Tuesday, February 25, 2025 from 5:00 until 7:00 pm with a Prayer Service at 6:00 pm in the St. Agatha’s Catholic Church, Hope, ND. Memorial Services will be Wednesday, February 26, 2023, at 3:00 pm in St. Agatha’s Catholic Church, in Hope, ND. A meal to follow at the American Legion Hall. 

Rest easy, Leroy, you were one of a kind!