Leo Joseph Jense

On the afternoon of Wednesday, March 19th, 2025, Leo passed away peacefully at home of natural causes.

Leo was born December 26th, 1937, in Anaconda, Montana. He was one of seven children born to Adelina and Lawrence Jense.

Leo graduated from Anaconda High School in 1956. His love of cars led him to a career in autobody work. He won several awards over the years for his meticulous work as a body shop foreman for multiple garages in the area.

Leo met his wife Joanne Sconfienza in 1964, and they were married in 1965. Leo and Joanne were blessed with three children, four grandchildren, and one great granddaughter.

Leo was kind, loving, and a family man through and through. When not with his family you could find him outdoors. He enjoyed cruising in one of his classic cars, hunting, fishing, or spending time in his world class garden. Leo was a phenomenal gardener and truly enjoyed sharing his bounty with friends, neighbors, and family.

He was a longtime member of the Anaconda Sportsman Club and the Knights of Columbus. He especially enjoyed watching and supporting the Copperheads. He rarely missed a home game, always sitting in the same seat. Most notably, you could always count on Leo to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Leo is survived by his wife Joanne, as well as sisters: Marlene Puccinelli (Ray) and Carol Varelia (Dick). He is survived by brothers: Fred Jense (Pat) and Gene Jense (Tammy). Leo leaves behind his children: John Jense (Tracy), Dino Jense, Maria Jense (Chris). He is also survived grandchildren Vanessa Evans (Brian), Kyra Cline, Nicholas Cline, Wyatt Jense, and great granddaughter Ella Evans. Leo left behind many special friends including Floyd Sather and Terry LaValley.

Leo was preceded in death by brother Larry Jense, sister Fran Sundquist, and friend Pat Kellegher.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 am on Thursday, March 27th at Holy Family Church in Anaconda. Visitation will begin at 9:30 am, with Rite of Committal following at Olivet Cemetery in Anaconda. A reception will be held back at the church in the Hunthausen Center.

Memorials in honor of Leo are suggested to the Anaconda Sportsman Club at PO Box 1113, Anaconda, MT 59711.

Please visit the sidebar to offer condolences or share a memory of Leo. Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home has been privileged to care for Leo and his family.