Jean Mary Chelenza, 81, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away on May 11, 2026. Jean was

born on May 4, 1945 to George and Frances (Mrozek) Patzner. She spent her childhood

growing up on the family farm in Elmira Township, Minnesota. She graduated from St.

Charles High School in 1963. Jean married Duane Chelenza in 1967 and in 1970 their son,

Brian, was born. In 1976, they moved to Norman, OK where they settled and raised their

son.

Jean's early years on the farm helped shape her strong work ethic and values. She worked

30 years for the Federal Aviation Administration in Oklahoma City, retiring in 2004. Jean

was energetic and full of life well into her golden years. This was evident when she made

the move from Norman, Oklahoma back to Minnesota in 2018. She valued her

independence and her physical health was important to her. Jean enjoyed taking daily

walks, going to garage sales, doing crafts and reading. She loved to travel and experience

new places throughout her life. She especially loved her grandson, Gabriel, and wasn't shy

about telling everyone how proud she was of him. A devout Catholic, her faith remained an

important part of her life through both joyful and difficult times. Jean will be remembered

for her sense of adventure, her faith and her sense of humor.

Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 35 years, Duane Chelenza, her

parents, and her siblings Joyce Clemens, Rita Ristau and Gerald Patzner.

She is survived by her son, Brian (Lori) Chelenza of Oklahoma City, OK, grandson, Gabriel

Chelenza of Oklahoma City, OK, sisters, Marilyn Shea and Geraldine Holzer. She is also

survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Pax Christi Church, 4135 18th Ave NW, Rochester, MN.

She will be buried alongside her husband in Norman, OK.