Douglas "Doc" Warren Jensen
Douglas "Doc" Warren Jensen left this world on Wednesday, July 19th, 2017. His life was filled with service to others and daily kind deeds. He was one of the friendliest, most tender-hearted men who freely gave of his time and talents to anyone in need.
He had the most incredible "gift of gab." If you knew him at all--and even if you didn't and just crossed his path--it's more than likely you have been swept up in a long conversation filled with humor, wonder, praise, philosophy, beauty, homily, and more than a little good-natured "bullshit." During these often personal, intimate chats, you knew undeniably that you were the most important person to Doug, his best friend. And you truly were. He loved you. You felt as if you could listen to him forever, and every ending was too soon.
A gifted artist, Doug could turn things like wood, paint, and even eggshells into pieces worthy of display. Even his gardens and grounds attracted admirers. Ever self-critical, he struggled to accept praise for his efforts, but we all marveled at his skillful work.
Doug was born in Gunnison, Utah, but his family moved to Vernal while he was a boy, so he grew up in the Basin. He loved this town and the people in it. Some of his fondest memories stemmed from his early life on the game farm, where he developed a life-long love of animals and where he learned his hunting and fishing skills. He spent many peaceful hours fly fishing the Green River, often with a dog or a daughter in tow. And many a campfire was honored by his Dutch oven cooking.
Doug married Roberta Jean Abbott of Spanish Fork in 1971 and soon moved his growing family to Chicago, where he earned his Doctorate in Dental Surgery degree. The couple returned to Vernal so he could practice his trade. Doug was a gentle dentist, applying his artistic talents and caring personality to his work. He also gave much of his time to the community, serving as a scoutmaster, coach, church leader, teacher, member of the search and rescue, and helping whomever and however he could.
Doug and Robbie raised their six spirited children on Robinwood Lane until Robbie tragically passed in 1995. In November 1996, Doug married Lisa Ann Summarell. Not only did Doug gain his best friend, but he also added another daughter. The adventurous couple settled in Maesar, bought a motorcycle, and started taking many trips to exotic locations--like Wendover. Together they enjoyed working on projects, bowling, driving around the mountains hunting for rocks and landscaping pieces, building and collecting things, hanging out with friends and family, and laughing and loving. Despite Doug's physical and mental health problems later in life, they enjoyed a good life together.
Doug is preceded in death by his father (Robert) and mother (Ruth), sister (Jocelyn), and first wife (Roberta). He is survived by his wife (Lisa); daughters Jeanna (Jason), Jessica (Ben/Mark), Kristen (George), Karianne (John), and Chrystal; sons Jeremy (Suki) and Kyle (Vicky); brother Lewis; and 13 wonderful grandkids.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Uintah Conference Center (313 E 200 S). A viewing will be held Tuesday 9:45-10:45 a.m. prior to the services at the Conference Center. Interment will be in the Rockpoint Cemetery under the direction of the Ashley Valley Funeral Home.
IN LIEU OF FLOWERS DONATIONS CAN BE MADE DIRECTLY TO ASHLEY VALLEY FUNERAL HOME OR AT ZIONS BANK IN DOUGS NAME TO HELP WITH THE COST OF FUNERAL EXPENSES.
