Jeffrey Albert Tienken

1949 - 2024

Jeffrey Albert Tienken

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jeffrey Albert Tienken, beloved husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, and dedicated farmer, who left us peacefully on October 9, 2024, at the age of 75.

Born on October 8, 1949, to Robert and Barbara Tienken in Lindsay, Jeff spent his life nurturing both the land and his family. He was a steadfast presence in the lives of his beloved wife, Patti, and their three children, Chad, Brandi and Doug. Jeff's love for his family was matched only by his passion for farming, where he cultivated not just crops, but values of hard work, perseverance, and respect for nature. His work ethic, involvement in the farming community and commitment to his chosen vocation earned him respect among his peers and a reputation as a steward of the industry.

Jeff and Patti's Christmas Tree Farm, Country Pines Nursery, was a wonderful source of holiday memories for not just the family, but much of the community. Jeff and Patti delighted in giving tours to local elementary school classes that always concluded with candy canes and hot cocoa. In his truly entrepreneurial spirit, Jeff didn't limit his interests to farming. Working closely with Doug, he expanded into heavy equipment operation which included fighting fires, orchard removal, and deep ripping.

As a grandfather, he delighted in telling silly jokes, giving tractor rides, and developing individual relationships with each of his beloved grandchildren. He enjoyed every moment of the countless afternoons barbequing, swimming, hunting, fishing and, of course, working with his family.

Perhaps his most cherished memories involved fishing, snipe hunts and bonfires with family and friends at the family cabin in Camp Nelson. He explored every inch of the forest and river with his brothers, Jim & Brian, and supported his father in repairs and projects, and spent afternoons on the deck with his mother playing cards. It was truly his special place and he was a lifelong steward of its bounty and beauty. 

Jeff's generosity extended beyond his family. He was an active member of the local community, volunteering his time and resources to various agricultural initiatives, the Lindsay Museum, and especially the John M. Nelson Conservancy where, as a director, he helped preserve the history of Camp Nelson that both his father and grandfather so loved. As a long time member of the Lindsay Strathmore Irrigation District Board of Directors he was able to advocate for the needs of the local agricultural community navigating significant challenges such as drought and regulatory changes. His gentle spirit, steadfast commitment and sense of humor made him a beloved figure not just within his family but throughout the community. He and Patti were celebrated as Honored Couple in 2017 during the annual Orange Blossom Festival.

Jeff was preceded in death by his father Bob Tienken and a grandson Brody (our heavenly angel).

He is survived by his loving wife Patti, his mother Barbara, loving children, cherished grandchildren Jack, Pete, Chase, and a wide circle of friends and family who will miss him dearly. A celebration of Jeff's life will be held on November 2, 2024, at The Wranch (23166 Rd 238 Lindsay, California), starting at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jeff's name to the Jeff Tienken Memorial Agriculture Scholarship, ensuring that future generations can continue to cultivate their love for the land.

Jeffrey Albert Tienken lived a life rooted in love and hard work, and his legacy will continue to flourish in the hearts and fields of those he touched.