Arlen Jensen

North Logan, Utah - Russell Arlen Jensen, 58, passed away on October 13, 2011 after a valiant struggle with cancer. His sweetheart, Katie, was by his side. Arlen was born on June 10, 1953 to Russell Jensen and Geraldine Drake Jensen, who were wonderful parents. He was raised in Kimberly, Idaho. As a child, he enjoyed camping with his family and taking part in church and school activities. He also loved working on cars. Arlen attended Utah State University.

He married his best friend, Katie, on October 22, 1982. They decided early on to always be kind to each other and they held true to that commitment. Soon after the marriage, Arlen insisted on adopting Katie's four preschool children so they could all be a family with the same last name. They added one more baby and became the family he wanted. No father was ever more devoted and the children knew he would always be there for them. Arlen loved spending time with Katie and worked with her for the past several years at the English Language Center. Arlen had a great talent for being able to fix just about anything and was quick to help when his children needed him. He enjoyed babysitting the grandchildren.

He developed a love for singing at an early age and sang in the ward choir most of his life. Singing in the Easter Cantata each year was a joy for him. He loved sharing his testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints through music. He was an active member of the LDS church, serving in numerous callings.

Arlen was loved and respected by all who knew him. He was also a devoted friend. Many people marveled at his non-complaining nature, especially through his illness. He was an example of perseverance, wisdom, and humility. He was always 'the calm in the storm'. Arlen expressed gratitude daily for the kindness of those in his ward and neighborhood. The amazing acts of service rendered by his friends comforted him. He also bonded closely with the staff at the Logan cancer center. Dr. Ali Ben Jacob became a true friend . Arlen was surrounded by love because he earned that love throughout his life. His faith in life-after-death was absolute.

Arlen is survived by his wife, Katie, and by his children, Miranda (Scott) Jenson, Marissa (Malachi) Kaplan, Jarom (Kami), Jordan, Shayna (Danny) Burton. He is also survived by his Father, Russell Jensen, and by his siblings, Denece (J) Brighton, Dane (Wanda), and Necia (Roger) Hartgrave, and by 13 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, October 18 at the North Logan 4th Ward, 2750 North 800 East in North Logan. A viewing will be held from 6-8 PM on Monday, October 17th at Allen Mortuary, 420 East 1800 North in North Logan and from 11:30-12:30 prior to services at the the church. Interment will be in the North Logan Cemetery. Condolences and thoughts may be expressed to the family online at www.allenmortuaries.net .