Cold case keeps family suffering
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Editor,
Sept. 22 was Robert Norbert Jensen’s birthday. I know because I baked his cake.
On Oct. 17, 2005, he was reported missing. Some time later, his remains were found in the forested areas outside St. Ignatius.
No one has been charged in what has been determined a homicide. His remains have never been returned to his family for burial. The plot has been chosen; the headstone ordered; but there is nothing to put in the grave. When asked why his remains could not be returned to his wife Mary and son Bobby, the reply from (Lake County Attorney) Mitch Young was, “We need the remains for trial.”
(Lake County Sheriff) Lucky Larson and (Lake County Sheriff’s Lt.) Mike Sargent have yet to return Mary’s calls at all.
Those accused of Harold Mitchell’s death haven’t come to trial yet, but his remains have a resting place. The accused killer of Drew Taylor and Josh Clairmont pled “not guilty” on Sept. 15 to two counts of felony negligent homicide, and yet the victims have already been laid to rest.
I don’t pretend to be a forensics expert or to know the mind of one who is, but as the anniversary of Robert’s death approaches, Mary and Bobby’s home becomes a constant memorial to their unburied loved one, and the pain of losing him returns there afresh. The pictures on the walls are dusted.
His car has been taken out of the garage for its annual “start-up.” Pictures now appear on the table of scenes from Rob’s life. His birthday was celebrated with tears and longing.
They are longing for a place to go and grieve, to meditate on all that Rob’s life was or could have been. For a place to reminisce on their love for someone taken so young. For some closure and healing. For a place to pay tribute to a husband, and a father, and a friend.
I am the florist with nowhere to lay the flowers.
Robin Charlton-Fry
Owner, Sabine Floral
St. Ignatius
