Jerry Lee "Bud" Sarensen Jr., 81, of Murphysboro, lost his battle with cancer on Friday, Aug. 23, 2019 at St. Joseph Memorial Hospital in Murphysboro, surrounded by family.
Bud was born on April 5, 1938 in Grimsby, Illinois to Jerry Sr. and Thelma Sarensen. He married Ruth Ann (Clough) Sarensen of Murphysboro on Nov. 23, 1973 and she preceded him in death. They shared 43 loving years together.
Bud spent four years in the United States Marine Corps. He was honorably discharged and returned home, where he worked as a truck driver for 50 years. He retired from Bost Truck Service in March of 2008. Bud was a life member, prior Commander and District Commander of the Murphysboro American Legion.
He loved to cook for his family, listen to country music, and he never turned down a cold beer.
A grandfather for almost 27 years he never missed a birthday party, Christmas dinner or regular Sunday lunch. He was a good ol' country boy who never met a stranger and loved talking about his freight peddling days. His sense of humor, kind heart and homemade meals will be deeply missed.
He is survived by three daughters, Robin (Chris) Hottensen of Sesser, and Becky (Scott) Kemp and Chelle Sarensen, all of Murphysboro; five grandchildren, Katelyn (Jesse) Kemp-Elder and Madalyn Kemp, of Murphysboro, Shelby Payne of Nashville, Tennessee, and Dustin Payne and Allie Hottensen, both of Sesser; three great-grandchildren, Khloe, Korbin and Daxton Elder, all of Murphysboro; two sisters, Leanie Riggs and Sue (Merl) Darnstaedt of Nashville; brother Wayne Sarensen of Sand Ridge; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and youngest brother, Ronnie.
Bud's body has been cremated. A celebration of life was held on Saturday, Aug. 31 at the Murphysboro American Legion, as it was Bud's wish that he have a military service. His family and friends gathered at the Legion for a 21-gun salute, "Taps," and a good meal.
Memorials may be made to the family. For details, please visit www.pettettfuneralhome.com.
