December 29, 1937 - February 7, 2021
Our strong, faithful eagle has flown to be with his Lord and his departed family and friends in Heaven.
Robert “Bob” Jensen passed peacefully at 83 on Super Bowl Sunday, February 7th, in hi home and the loving care of his family and Agape Hospice. He has left a huge, gaping hole in the hearts of his beloved wife, Carol, his family and many friends. Loving father to daughter, Kalyn (Michael) Bowers, son R. Glenn Jensen; proud Grandpa to Christopher (Michelle) Bowers, Jason Bowers and thrilled Great Grandpa to Asher Ford Bowers. Bob is also survived by sisters-in-law Linda Higgason (MI) and Jean Jensen (TX) and brother-in-law Nelson (Darby) Yarlott (CO). He is a favorite Uncle to 16 nieces and nephews and has over 30 cousins; is survived by his favorite Uncle Charlie Mitchell (ND) who helped raise him in WWII.
Robert was born in Winner, South Dakota. While in high school he worked at Blackmarr Furniture, Reinerts Clothing, and even found work on a banana boat to experience the Caribbean and Cuba. He graduated from Boulder High and married his high school sweetheart, Carol, at the age of 20.
Upon college graduation in 1961 (B.A.), he enlisted in Naval Officer Candidate School. During his active duty in the South Pacific, Ensign Jensen became a skilled ship handler – his duties included helping disembark and recover SEAL teams on reconnaissance missions in Vietnam. In 1962, Bob participated in the last 2 above ground Atomic bomb testings at the close range of 50 miles with goggles as protection.
Commissioned as a Lieutenant JG, he served as a Personnel Officer to Admiral Colwell, South Pacific Fleet in San Diego where Carol happily joined him. Leaving active duty, they returned to Colorado.
Bob earned his M.B.A. (CU 1966) becoming Assistant City Manager for the City of Aurora. He joined the Denver Water Board in 1966. During this time he became the loving father of 2, Kalyn and Glenn, all while earning his Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Denver in 1974.
During his 28 year career at Denver Water, he became Director of Administration, rejoined the Naval Reserve as a Judge Advocate General, assisting fellow service members and earning the rank of Commander. He served as a Blue and Gold Officer obtaining several appointments to the U.S. Naval Academy for Colorado graduates. Bob was active with Leadership Denver and A.W.W.A. He joined United Power as legal counsel 1993-1998 practicing utility and land use law.
Robert was an ardent CU Buffs fan, starting as a ball boy in high school. He won 2 racquetball championships at the D.A.C., numerous golf tournaments throughout the states of Colorado and Arizona, had 3 holes in ONE and played in the 1996 Colorado Classic Pro-AM with Stuart Cink.
Bob and Carol believed that making good memories was important for learning and enjoyment. With the kids they spent time swimming, golfing, boating, skiing, hiking, traveling, playing and watching sports, and Bob’s favorite…riding roller coaster.
Retirement allowed the couple to travel, and travel the did! They have rafted the Grand Canyon, climbed to the summit of Longs Peak, and traveled all 7 continents, crossing the equator over a dozen times. They explored beautiful vistas, flora and fauna, enjoying the true beauty of our world by gondola, funicula, small planes, subways (Russia’s was the best), carriage, hot air balloon, helicopter, safari truck, hydrofoil, camel, speed skimmer, tree top canopy, dugout canoe, ferry, ice breaker, rickshaw, zodiac, bajaj, and cable car.
Bob’s infectious laugh, love of fun and jokes, snazzy ties, cowboy boots and hats, and some dogs, will always bring smiles. His loyal and faithful love of family, lighthearted fun with friends, and deeply unselfish and respectful support of all people, causes and duties in his life will forever be treasured.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date, one in the Denver area, and one in Peoria, AZ. Details to follow – watch for updates on legacy.com.
Donations in Robert Jensen’s Honor may be made to: (please include his name)
University of Colorado Foundation | Attn: Gift Management | PO Box 17126 | Denver CO 80203 | [email protected]
Denver Rescue Mission | PO Box 5206 | Denver CO 80217
