Kris Jensen

Born in Denmark, November 1925, went to school 1933-1940. Started four years training as butter and cheese maker – May 1940.

Served in the Danish Army 1947-1948 as peacekeeper in Germany in the English section from September 1947 to April 1948.

Immigrated to Canada 1951: left Plymouth May 19, 1951, arrived at Pier 21 on May 26, on the S.S. Europe.

By train to Vancouver, BC, was taken to Bloedel Stewart and Welch hiring office on Hasting Street, and got a job at Somass Division Sawmill in Port Alberni. Started working June 3, 1951, and retired from the saw mill November 26, 1985. First two years pulling lumber on the big green chain, next two years as stenciller and trimmerman. Then four years as grader and tallyman.

In October 1959 I was approached by Pacific Lumber Inspection Bureau and asked to join them as inspector, still being at the same mill, worked the next 26 years as inspector. I married in 1961 and have four kids, two boys and two girls. My wife died of cancer in 1974. Remarried in 1977, and lost second wife to an aneurysm in the brain in 1992.

I am now living in Nanaimo.

Some of the things I was involved with in my lifetime: Board of Directors for Alberni Valley Senior Citizen Home Society for 10 years, 3 years as Vice President and 4 years as President. Board of Directors for Fir Park Village Care Home for 11 years serving as chairman for grounds and building for 10 years. Member of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Alberni 1965-1992, about 20 years as financial secretary. Member of Independent Order of Foresters 1953 to 1992; serving in just about all positions. Member of Kiwanis Club in Nanaimo.