Gordon Evan Jensen

March 25, 1941 – Dec. 24, 2025

Gordon Evan Jensen, 84, passed away on the night of December 24, 2025.

Gordon was born March 25, 1941, in Lovell to James Gordon Jensen and Alvrean Clark Jensen. He had one sister, Shirley Smiley. 

Gordon and his sister were raised in Cowley, where he spent his early years. He attended school in Cowley from pre-kindergarten through his junior year of high school. He later transferred to Lovell High School, where he graduated in 1960.

Gordon married his first wife, Charlotte Ware, in August of 1961. Together they welcomed two children, Colette and Clark Jensen. During this time, Gordon also helped raise a stepdaughter, Angela Martin. He then went on to help raise Kory Martin and Krystal Foster, two of his many grandchildren. Gordon and Charlotte were later divorced. 

Gordon then married Shirley Smith in December of 1966. They shared their life together for 20 years raising Gordon’s three children in Cody. That marriage later ended in divorce. 

On September 29, 2000, Gordon married his wife Susan Beddes in Lovell. During their marriage Gordon helped raise five stepchildren, Raymond Calvert, Jessica Calvert, Marie Kessler, John “JJ” Calvert and Sara Troyer and was then blessed with many more grandchildren. 

Gordon was drafted into the Vietnam War on October 3, 1968. He was stationed in Germany for two years, where he served with dedication before receiving an honorable discharge in July of 1970. He would proudly speak of his time overseas and share his memories with any who would listen. 

Gordon was a proud father and grandfather. Often you would find him looking through photos on his phone of his children and grandchildren. He would proudly show anyone who would look at all of their many accomplishments. 

Gordon was an avid musician with a deep love for singing. He found joy in playing music, and his passion for it remained a lifelong pursuit. Gordon also enjoyed spending time fishing and tending to his garden, where he found peace and satisfaction. 

In his later years, he became a fan of reading C.J. Box novels, immersing himself in the thrilling stories. Additionally, he always loved watching classic old westerns, which brought him comfort and nostalgia. 

Gordon’s warm personality, sense of humor and deep love for family and friends left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Fiercely loyal and loving, Gordon was devoted to his family and grandchildren, and his love for them burned with an intensity that was unmatched.

Known for his mischievous sense of humor, Gordon was a big joker who loved to stir up a little trouble. He had a unique ability to get away with anything, often smooth talking his way out of sticky situations. Gordon was a master storyteller, always able to pull you in with a great tale, sharing just the right details to make it unforgettable. 

Gordon was preceded in death by his parents, James and Alvrean Jensen, daughter Colette Day, stepdaughter Angela Martin and grandson Kayson Robert Acton.

Gordon is survived by his loving wife, Susan Jensen; son Clark Jensen; grandson Kory Martin; granddaughter Krystal Martin; stepchildren Raymond Calvert, Jessica Calvert, Marie (Zach) Kessler, John (Jacqueline) Calvert and Sara (Almonzo) Troyer; and his abundant grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy throughout his life.

A military graveside service for Gordon will be held Friday, Jan. 9, at 2 p.m. at the Lovell Cemetery. A memorial dinner will be held directly after the service at the Diamond J Bar in Lovell. All are welcome.