In Memoriam: David Byron Jensen

Dave (Grandpa) and Steve (Dad) Jensen

On March 3, my grandfather, David Byron Jensen, passed from this world to the next. I’m proud to share a middle name my grandfather; it has always made me feel connected to him. But, our connection goes much deeper than a name. He has left his loving mark on my life in so many ways.

Grandpa Jensen made a career of teaching. And, his example instilled in me the desire to read and learn. He often shared his delight in new technologies, from the latest educational video games to a new school printer that could produce poster-size prints. Growing up, I could always count on the school’s annual book sale to provide stacks of books for my imagination to roam through. Grandpa and Grandma would send me books for Christmas, birthdays, and sometimes just because. Each was accompanied by a card stamped with a paw print from their faithful pups, Rusty or Champ. More recently, Adelaide has been receiving books with love from Bo!

Grandpa always encouraged my interest in any topic. When I showed an enthusiasm for Native Americans, Grandpa not only sent me the entire Indian in the Cupboard series, but a matching cupboard he had made just for me. For years, I used this cupboard to lock up my treasures, from toys to secret love letters.

I will always cherish the memories of our Christmas trips to Evanston, Wyoming. The snow-covered plains were a treat for us rain-soaked Oregonians. I learned to sled, cross-country ski, and even went to my first barn dance! Grandpa and Grandma’s home was always warm and welcoming. They spoiled us with sweet foods we never got at home, like Lucky Charms and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cereal. And, they spent countless hours watching as we climbed all over the train cars in the elementary school playground.

As dear as my grandfather was to me as a child, he became even more so as I grew to be an adult. When my dad passed away, Grandpa was there to provide the extra support and guidance I needed. He ordained me to be priest, and when I went off to BYU, he ordained me to be an elder. He even acted as a witness when I married my dear wife, Melinda.

Though I will miss Grandpa Jensen greatly, I am comforted to know that he has been reunited with so many that love him, including Dad. Though he is gone from us for a time, his examples to me of faith and learning will stay with me all my life – and I hope I can make him proud.