Obituary of Bent Jensen

JENSEN, Bent (Bert) - Passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on January 19th, 2011, in his 76th year. Beloved husband of Grethe for over 54 years. Loving dad of Gary (Jill), Susie (the late Steve) Donnelley and Linda Cousineau. Cherished Farfar and Morfar of Steven (Julie), Riley, Joseph, Corey, Jason, Jesse, Callum and Ryan. Great grandfather of John and James. Bert will be fondly remembered by his brothers Keld ( the late Erna) and Willy (Hanne), extended family, many friends and his faithful dog, Lulu. Predeceased by his son, Dennis (1968) and parents Kai and Asta. Bert started his career in the hospitality industry as a young apprentice in Copenhagen, Denmark at the age of fifteen. While in the Danish Navy, he served as a Steward aboard the King of Denmark's Royal yacht. In 1957, he and Grethe immigrated to Canada, settling in Windsor, Ontario, then moving to Hamilton and Niagara Falls working in various restaurants and hotels. He eventually settled in St. Catharines and worked for many years at the Hotel Esquire before venturing North to manage an exclusive resort near Huntsville, Ontario known as Limberlost Lodge. In 1974, Bert and Grethe returned to St. Catharines and Bert and his brother Keld opened the Ocean Pearl Restaurant. Bert continued his career in the hospitality industry for many years, retiring in 1999. Bert will be lovingly remembered by all for his generosity, his kind soul and his love of entertaining his family and friends. As per Bert's wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Bert's life for family and friends will be held on Saturday, January 29th, 2011 at Henley Island Clubhouse on Henley Island Drive, St Catharines from 4-8 p.m. If so desired, memorial donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Canadian Diabetes Association would be appreciated by the family.