Wendell Jensen

WENDELL E. JENSEN IDAHO FALLS, ID - Wendell Elias Jensen, 80, of Idaho Falls, passed away May 19, 2005, at his home after a valiant and courageous battle with cancer. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather and will be greatly missed. Wendell was born on December 14, 1924, in Shelley, Idaho, to Marple Beaumont Jensen and Gertrude Vivian Gardner Jensen. After graduating from Shelley High School, he completed courses in Diesel Automotive in Los Angeles, California. He enlisted in the U. S. Navy during World War II as a Motor Machinists Mate. He loved his country and was proud to serve. On September 3, 1951, he married his sweetheart and best friend, Margie Baker in Elko, Nevada. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Idaho Falls Temple on August 25, 1954. They recently celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. He was employed at the INEL and enjoyed working as a welder and made many lifelong friends. He retired after 38 years. An active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Wendell held the office of High Priest. He loved his Heavenly Father and was very committed and dedicated to everything he was involved in, especially his church callings. He served in various bishoprics for 20 years as ward clerk and executive secretary. Wendell and Margie served faithfully together as home teachers. Through this service, they developed close relationships with the ward members. Wendell was an avid reader and also enjoyed camping and spending time with his family. He thrived on the accomplishments and talents of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed working with his hands and was very creative, especially in the art of metal working. Wendell was a meticulous gardener and loved caring for his home and yard. Wendell will be remembered for his willingness to serve without being asked and quick to volunteer his time. The family would like to thank Dr. Mulvey and his staff and Aspen Home Health and Hospice for their concern and excellent care. Surviving are: Wife: Margie Jensen, Idaho Falls, ID Daughter: Kaye Lynn (Michael C.) Beeler, Valaparaiso, IN Daughter: JoAnn (Kim) Petersen, Idaho Falls, ID Son: Lonny Wendell (Sharon) Jensen, Basalt, ID Daughter: Trina (Jeff) Summers, Chandler, AZ Brother: LeOrnal Jensen, Portland, OR Brother: Ronal Bernell Jensen, Rapid City, SD Sister: Raeola Rhead, Pocatello, ID Sister: Nida Keefer, Idaho Falls, ID Sister: Mae Joyce Thomason, Aurora, CO 19 Grandchildren and 10 Great Grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Wyonna Kruse and a granddaughter, Lindsey Summers. Funeral Services will be at 11 a.m., Monday, May 23, 2005, at the Idaho Falls LDS Thayerwood Ward (5255 South 5th West), with Bishop Richard Dyer officiating. The family will visit with friends on Sunday from 6:30-8 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home (273 N. Ridge) and for one hour prior to the services at the church. Burial will be in Fielding Memorial Park under the direction of Wood Funeral Home. Military Rites will be performed by the Bonneville County Veterans Team.