J Robert Zensen, 84, WWII vet, avid runner

J Robert Zensen Sr., 84, of Haddon Heights, died July 11 of cancer.

Mr. Zensen, a 51-year resident of Haddon Heights, was an early recreational runner, lacing up his jogging shoes each evening starting in the late 1960s.

"He'd come in all sweaty and happy," said his daughter, Susan Merrill. "He learned early on running was his way to relieve stress."

Mr. Zensen was born in Chester in 1923. He joined the Army in 1943, serving with the 49th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Brigade for three years in Central Europe and the Rhineland.

He met his future wife, Doris, while briefly dating her sister. They were married in 1946 when he returned from the war. Both sisters called Mr. Zensen "Ty" when he was young because of his resemblance to the film star Tyrone Power.

After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania in 1951, he joined Scott Paper Co., where he worked in personnel for more than 30 years in Chester and Eddystone.

Mr. Zensen served as a lay youth leader from 1968 to 1979 at First United Methodist Church, where he led Bible study, missions, camping trips and a coffeehouse.

"He was a neat, down-to-earth person," said Barbara Robinson, who was then a member of the youth group.

She described how Mr. Zensen prepared a worship service on one camping trip by setting candlelit logs adrift on a lake.

"It was one of the most meaningful communions I've ever taken," she said.

In addition to his daughter, Mr. Zensen is survived by his wife, Doris; daughter Marta Zensen; son J Robert Zensen Jr.; two sisters; and a granddaughter.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 6 at First United Methodist Church, 704 Garden St., Haddon Heights.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Alzheimer's Association, Delaware Valley Chapter, 399 Market St., Suite 102, Philadelphia 19106.