Jason P. "Howdy" Jensen

OTTAWA – Jason P. Jensen, age 49, of Ottawa, passed away Thursday, May 24th, 2018 at his home.

The visitation will be held Tuesday, May 29th from 3:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M.  Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 30th at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Timothy McGeorge officiating.  Both will be held at Gladfelter Funeral Home in Ottawa.

Jason was born February 27th, 1969 in Ottawa.  Son of Douglas and Marilyn (Mathes) Jensen.  Jason married Nicole Alvarado October 12th, 2013 at Thrush Park in Ottawa.  Surviving are his wife Nikki, of Ottawa.  Mother and step father, Marilyn and Jim “Jimbo” Steenhoek of Ottawa.  Maternal grandmother, Norma Mathes of Marseilles.  Children, Payton, Presley and Pazley Jensen of Ottawa.  Sister, Rebecca (Chris) Snook, of Marseilles.  A niece, Olivia Bryant and nephews, Jensen Bryant and Jack Snook.  He was preceded in death by his father, maternal grandfather and paternal grandparents.

He was a member and MVP of Marquette High School’s ’86-’87 Elite 8 basketball team.  After graduating from Marquette in 1987, he continued his education at the College of St. Francis.  He completed his degree at Illinois State University in Environmental Sciences.  Jason began his professional career as a state health inspector with LaSalle County.  He left his mark as a member and recently elected auditor of Labors Local 393.

Jason, a devoted sports enthusiast, rooted for all Chicago teams (except the Sox).  While he was a phenomenal fan his true passion in life was his family.  He always made sure others came before himself.  The support and encouragement he gave was infinitive.  He made every effort to be there for his children and family members under any circumstance.

When you encompass the entirety of Jason’s life he was an unforgettable, irreplaceable soul.  A sense of warmth, comfort and indescribable love illuminated through his smile.  If you were lucky enough to cross paths, you would have a memorable story to tell.  Jason was an extremely hard worker who completed life with such grace.

That was Jason.  May he always be remembered and continue to shine through those he left behind.  The world will be a heavier place without him.  He will be missed forever and remembered always.  Rest in peace our beloved Angel.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Red Stocking Fund or Pet Project.  To share a memory or light a candle, please visit www.gladfelterfuneralhome.com or Gladfelter Funeral Home on Facebook.