It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lauren Anton Jessen, age 89, of Prosper, Texas, on July 26, 2026. He was born on October 24, 1936, in Waterloo, lowa, to Anton Marinus and Edna (Thuesen) Jessen.
Lauren grew up on his family's farm in Black Hawk County near Waterloo, lowa, where he enjoyed helping his father, his older brother Mike, and several of his uncles who had immigrated from Denmark and farmed in the area. He was active in 4-H and developed a strong work ethic and deep appreciation for family.
Every Sunday, the extended Jessen family gathered for a large family meal, followed by a spirited game of cards. Lauren especially treasured the time he spent with his beloved cousin and lifelong best friend, Don Jessen, whose friendship remained one of the great blessings of his life. Wherever he found himself surrounded by family and friends, he loved to smile and say, "This is the place!"
Lauren began his education at a country school near the family farm on Black Hawk Road before graduating from West High School in Waterloo, lowa. He went on to attend the University of lowa in lowa City, where he proudly became a Hawkeye and earned a degree in Chemical Engineering. After graduation, he began his career in Sylva, North Carolina, before accepting a position in Columbus, Ohio.
While living in Ohio, Lauren met the love of his life, Brigitta Roswitha Laux. They were married on December 16, 1967, at St. Catharine of Siena Catholic Church in Cincinnati, Ohio. Together they built a wonderful life centered on love and family, welcoming two children, Christopher Lauren and Janet Kay, whom Lauren cherished deeply.
Lauren had a lifelong love of mathematics and enjoyed playing just about every card game imaginable. Bridge, Poker, Gin Rummy, Oh Sunshine, and UNO were among his favorites, and he never passed up the opportunity for a friendly game. He also enjoyed, exercising, jogging, and later in life, cycling. On the golf course, he preferred carrying his clubs rather than riding in a cart. Lauren was equally committed to healthy living and was well known for one of his favorite sayings, "If it tastes good, don't eat it!"
Lauren and Brigitta enjoyed making weekend trips from Houston to Dallas to visit family and cheer on their son during his SMU basketball games. Eventually, they moved to The Colony, Texas, to be closer to their children and three grandsons. One of the greatest joys of Lauren's life was following his grandsons' athletic pursuits. He and Brigitta could often be found driving throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex to attend basketball, baseball, and soccer games, proudly supporting Kyle, Grant, and Reid from the sidelines.
Lauren was dearly loved by everyone who knew him and will be remembered for his kindness, intelligence, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family.
He is lovingly survived by his son, Christopher, and wife Denise Jessen of Prosper, Texas; his daughter, Janet and husband Rick Ramsey of Broomfield, Colorado; his cherished grandsons, Kyle, Grant, and Reid Jessen; and his caring sister, Dee Fowler. They will forever miss his love, laughter, wisdom, and gentle presence while cherishing the many memories they shared.
Lauren was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Brigitta Roswitha (Laux) Jessen; his parents, Anton Marinus and Edna (Thuesen) Jessen; and his brother, Mike Jessen.
Lauren will be laid to rest beside his devoted wife, Brigitta, in Ohio at a later date.
Though he is gone from our sight, he will remain forever in our hearts. May he rest in the eternal peace of God's heavenly kingdom.
Memorials:
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association