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Jens Anderson Obituary

Jens Hagen Anderson, 1987 - 2015

Jens Hagen Anderson – with your grizzly bear head, windswept hair, green eyes, thick hands, Viking shoulders, and hobbit feet – how could you die? How could you leave us to go through this life without you? No more of your grizzly bear hugs, or your far-too-long engineer explanations?

You were so strong and gentle, so big and big-hearted. You leave behind a lot of unfilled holes. Jonell without her husband. Lowell and JoMarie without their son. Peder, Sten, and Bjorn without their youngest brother. Bob and Deb without their son-in-law. Jess, Jai, Jessica, Annie, Tarryn, and Franky without their brother-in-law. Allistaire, Solveig, Haaken, Per and Marzio without their uncle. So many of us without our loving, protective friend.

God, were you determined. You tried so hard to serve and love your sweet Jonell. And how she loved you in return, how she tenderly called you by pet names, "Yens" and "Jensie." And to watch you make faces and jokes that set your nieces and nephews to giggling their cute little brains out. How you drummed with your eyes shut so tight, that goofy face that would have cracked me up during worship if it weren't for all the earnest hopefulness, thanks and praise written on it. I was in awe of your devotion to your parents and brothers, how deeply you loved them. I loved how you would drop everything to spend time with them, whether exposed to the elements on those ascents of the Grand Teton, or in the soft, woody warmth of the Kelly Canyon home you grew up in.

You were so unassuming. I almost forgot how much your résumé makes you seem like a saint. I mean, a mechanical engineer who designed wheelchairs for children in developing countries? Who worked on monkey brain devices that might help scientists find cures for mental illness? And you were only 28. Jens, really, were you just trying to make the rest of us look bad?

And my gosh, Safety Sam, you were such a pain to ski the backcountry with. Digging pits even in low risk, low consequence situations. And I know it was how you were raised, but you really took that Anderson Family Adventure Pact to the extreme: "If you have a bad feeling, even if you're not sure why, you have to speak up. I'd rather us all bail than have something bad happen we'll regret." And you clearly had no problem speaking up. Every time you did, we'd spend the day on slopes so flat I had to pole just to go anywhere. But you don't have to tell me. I know you saved your family's lives that one time on Granite Peak, turning everyone back from what would become a deadly lightning storm. And I'm sure you saved mine a few times too.

What's so hard to understand, though, is just where was your Jensie Sense this time? Why didn't it kick in? I know, that snowpack was so stable. You guys managed your risk to a fault. And Jens, when you took the lower section first, saying, "Why don't I go down a little ways and get some pictures of you guys," that was so like you.

You lugged that big dSLR on your chest everywhere, and sometimes the batteries were even charged. You loved photography, but even more, you loved preserving memories with friends and sharing the beauty you'd seen with anyone who would look. And it wasn't just that boat-anchor of a camera you carried. On every outing, yours was the biggest pack, stuffed with extra clothes for anyone who got cold, a big first aid kit so you could take care of us, and on longer trips, at least one can of Coors Banquet for everyone in the party.

And for those of us who were carrying burdens of the heart, you so lovingly and delicately lightened our loads. You made things so much easier for all of us, and I don't know what we're going to do without you.

When I look back over your life, there's a clear pattern. You worked tirelessly at rock climbing and trail running, not because you were passionate about those things, but because those things would get you more time with your brothers. You stayed on too long at some less-than-ideal jobs, not because you didn't have other offers, but because you didn't want to leave your employers in a bind. And you swam for so many years, winning a number of regional championship events, ranking top 10 in the nation, and setting countless Montana State records – 11 of which still have your name next to them. But you weren't finding joy in swimming. You kept at it, knowing all the effort your parents and coaches had put into you, until you felt the presence of God for the first time at 16 and understood that they would be OK, and that you were free.

And with that freedom, you skied. My gosh, could you ski. Your big green eyes just lit up out there, and it didn't matter whether you were bombing through the deep or slicing up hardpack. Heck you were even giddy on the skin up, you big goof. You were just this blonde, roaming grizzly bear, powerful and noble, desiring to know every secret the mountains might hold. And every chance you got, you took JoJo with you, adventuring together, wrapping her hand in your big old paw. And true to form, you took up telemarking, helping you check your speed so that you would spend more time with her.

I'm so grateful you guys got to go to the Lofotens this past summer. Your Norwegian blood had been calling you there for ages, and you two traipsed around like gypsies, exploring the mountains and villages and beaches, just the way you'd always dreamed.

Jo told me your biggest flaw was that you were too critical of yourself. And I'd have to agree. You could get to the bottom of a run, whooping and howling, only to look up at your line and pick at all they ways you should have skied it better. It was the same in life. You'd look back at the things you'd already been forgiven for, and you'd pick them up again, just to bear the weight of your regret.

But Jo, in her wisdom, told me this great flaw was also your greatest strength. It drove you with a keen desperation to become kinder, more creative and more loving. And Jens, we can say so confidently, you became those exact things.

You went from being called Mr. Grumpy Gills as a high school boy to becoming a man of warmth and grace. You'd go to Seattle for little Allistaire as much as possible, and when you couldn't, you did everything to make sure JoJo could. You devoted dozens of hours to building Peder a truck bed platform that matched your own, but you only let him pay for the materials. You became a creative who composed photos and beat drums so the rest of us could experience the world the way you did, a maker who worked wood into furniture for your family and friends, a renaissance man who loved discussing literature, with favorites like War and Peace, Les Miserables, and the entire catalog of Ivan Doig.

And as you grew, you came to understand just how much joy you had always brought God, even when you screwed up. You felt his grace and freedom, and you learned to simply rest, floating on an infinite sea of His love for you. His was the well from which you drew all that outsize strength and love and wisdom.

You were so careful in the mountains because you knew the weightiness and pain of death. But you did not fear it. You gladly accepted all that God ordained for you. You prayed in that sweet and tender voice that you might submit yourself to His plans. You lived each day to the hilt, with great privilege and responsibility. Jens, you made our Papa proud.

I can't stand having to live the rest of my years without you. And I'm not alone. We miss you so much, and this is going to hurt for a very long time. But all of us, we are so fortunate for every day, every minute, we were given to spend with you.

To JoJo's husband

Our son

Our brother

Our dear, dear friend:

We love you with everything we have, and we'll see you again very soon.

- A close friend of Jens

Please join family and friends for The Jens Anderson Memorial Service, beginning at 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 18th at Journey Church, which is located at 1794 E. Baxter Lane in Bozeman. All are welcome, and please bring your kids. A reception at the church will follow.

If you would like to make a donation in Jens' honor, please consider supporting Obliteride or The Bozeman 3.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Bozeman Daily Chronicle on Apr. 17, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Jens Anderson

Not sure what to say?





Nicole Qualtieri

April 28, 2015

I didn't know Jens personally but we were photog friends via social media, and I am still blown away by his incredible talent and giant love for his people. I donated to Bozeman 3 in his honor as I was out of town for the memorial. Sending all my love and heart energy towards Jen's friends and his loving family--Nicole

Brenda Bertucci

April 26, 2015

Jonelle, you don't know me but I am Your cousin Brandon and Kellie's mom Brenda. I just wanted to let you know deeply sorry I am at the loss of your husband. Please give my condolecences to his family.

Mary (Urdahl) DeWall

April 20, 2015

My heart aches for your family. Praying for you all during such a difficult time in your life.

Randy & Deanna Bergman

April 20, 2015

Dear JoMarie, Lowell, Peder, Sten and Bjorn,
Our hearts go out to you on the loss of Jens. We are so very sorry and share a very deep sympathy with you!
Randy & Deanna

April 19, 2015

So sorry to hear about Jens. My sincere sympathy for your loss. Dr James Feist

Anne MacPherson West

April 18, 2015

While we don't know one another, through my Bozeman family I have prayed, laughed and admired this lovely family. Today I mourn with you. May God bless you and provide comfort always.

April 18, 2015

Anderson Family,
Our prayers are with you all for the Lord's comfort.
Fred and Julie Bahnson

Janice Lopez

April 18, 2015

Jens you lived and loved life to the fullest. May your family find comfort knowing that you are with the Lord, and my we all live our lives as you did by enjoying every single day.

Sherrie Pierce

April 18, 2015

So sorry for your loss! I pray God gives you comfort and strength and embraces you in his loving arms.

Shelley Ellis

April 17, 2015

Whoever wrote this obituary did this man a great honor. I didn't know him, but he's the age of my son...what pain to lose a man so young and so vibrant. Well done, writer. Obituaries should read like this more often, like honest and nonscripted love poems from hurting hearts. Best wishes to all who were left behind.

Karen La Plant

April 17, 2015

I didn't know Jens. The bus route I drive at Big Sky, goes down Jack Crk Rd. I've always marveled at the mountain range that Jens was on. I see beautiful constellations over those mountains at night. I am a Christian, and will remember Jens when I see God's creations.

Nicci (Staples) Phillips

April 17, 2015

I remember Jens walking around swim meets, so long ago, with his light hair and blue eyes both covered by a ball cap that he had to turn his face up toward the sky to see from under. Lowell, Jo Marie, Peder, Sten, and Bjorn, my heart goes out to you all. We're praying for you.

Char Eve

April 17, 2015

Dear JensI know you are nestled in the loving arms of our Lordwith His open hands; allowing you to give a little nudge back.
How do I say this..Embrace Jens, Respect what he taught you, his sense, ethics , love for what obviously mattered.
What a Gem. No Fault. Ever. Life. Lift your eyes and Thank Jens for the stamp you were lucky enough to have gotten from this boy.

Elaine Hartman

April 17, 2015

Jens, I did not know you, but you are a friend of my son, Doug and of my daughter Katrina. We were all in Bozeman that weekend for the symphony concert.In retrospect, a concert dedicated to you in my mind, and perhaps in the minds of others who attended, and then afterwards found out that God had unexpectedly called you home. My condolences to those who loved you and who grieve for you.

Jennifer Leigh Murphy

April 17, 2015

What a fine young man with a wonderful family. Jens will be missed.

Tammy and Kelly Hall

April 17, 2015

This beautifully composed obituary perfectly captured a beautifully composed young man. Created with love by God, raised in love by his parents, chosen in love by Jo and surrounded in love by friends and family. We send prayers....continually....to all. What a loss...what a pain...what a hole he leaves. Without the blessed assurance of Jesus..we couldn't move on. Tammy and Kelly Hall

April 17, 2015

:(

Danielle Winton

April 17, 2015

Jens smile, gentleness, and his heart to serve others will be missed. I was given a glimpse at how he used his talents to bring glory to God. What a legacy...Praying for this sweet family.

Gloria (Ohs) Allwin

April 17, 2015

I didn't have the pleasure of knowing Jens, but I do know some of his family. My prayers are with you all during this time of grieving. I pray for peace and for God to carry you in His arms during this time as he did for us when we lost our son.

Carol Sanford

April 17, 2015

Sometimes not liking and often shocked at the plan of God for us...still submitting to it as to a Father Who loves us more than anyone could and holds us together in His great arms of love...Glorying in the fact that Jens is safe in His arms now.

April 17, 2015

Mark and I never got the pleasure of meeting Jens, but our youngest daughter Jennifer did. She shared with me the youth group gatherings at the Anderson Residence with paintball activites. She said those youth outings were memorable and Jens and the family went out of their way to be gracious hosts. Our deepest sympathy for the family. Our ferverent prayers will be said for you all to seek strength and wisdom through all that has happened. May you all find peace and comfort knowing that Jens, albeit taken from this earth too soon. Sincerely, Mark and Pat Kossler of Bozeman MT and Jennifer Kossler Bahr, St. Petersburg, Florida.

Jens's inner world

Scott Reyman

April 17, 2015

They say your outer world is a reflection of you inner world. Jens, so grateful you had the courage to share you light, gifts and love with us while you were here. You were an beautiful example of what a young man should be like in the crazy world in which we live in today. Thank you! Help guide us from the other side brother.

Carol Sloan (Ferrie)

April 17, 2015

Lowell & JoMarie, I am so very sorry for the incomprehensible loss of Jens from your earthly lives. Jens was in the 2nd-grade Sunday School class I taught and I remember his sweet, curious spirit. I am praying that the "why" of this will soon be overshadowed by trust in the Savior's never-failing, yet sometimes not understood, love for you.

Debbie

April 17, 2015

I did not personally know Jens but knew his father, Lowell, through the medical field. What a wonderful man he is. I feel I have come to know Jens a little bit by this beautifully done obituary. Sounds like a beautiful young man inside and out and my heart goes out to your families. God be with you!Debbie

Tina Finley

April 17, 2015

My name is Tina Finley and I only know you a little because you attended Clay and Natalie's wedding at my house last May. I'm sorry I didn't know you better but Natalie and my daughter Tana spoke very highly of both of you. I am so sorry for your loss and heavens gain. Oh, life is so very, very hard. My hugs from Iowa are with you always as you walk this path. The valley of the shadow is so long and steep and hard most of the time. Please know I am praying for you and your family as you step out each and every day and try to live it the way God wants you to and the way you know Jens would want you to. Not an easy task. I want to thank you for taking in our dear daughter in law. She is a gem and I know you and Jens were part of that. Thank you. I'm praying. Love, Mom Finley (Tina)

Patty Cowles

April 17, 2015

It's been many years since the days of the Barracudas but we fondly remember Jens and the entire Anderson family. He was taken too soon in our eyes but there is always a plan that we may not yet realize. Know that love and prayers are being sent to the entire family.

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