Svend Jessen

Published in the Bay Area News Group publication from 5/28/2008 - 5/30/2008.

Resident of Pleasanton, Svend 'Red' Jessen, one of life's great gentlemen, passed away peacefully at his home in Pleasanton, CA May 5th, 2008. He was 85 years old.

Svend was strong and sensitive, generous and gentle. He had a big heart and a kind spirit. His commitment to his family and friends was at once paramount and unconditional. His love for his beautiful wife, Jinka, who passed away nearly three and a half years ago, was both rare and remarkable.

Just as Svend was honored by baseball's greats for his contributions to the game in the 1950's so he continues to be honored by the many people who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Survived by his sons, Leonard and John, his grandson, Jonathan, his brothers, Toft and Sig, and his good friend, Peter, Red will always be remembered for his dignity, humility and grace both on and off the field.