James Ensminger

James F. Ensminger iii

November 30, 1938 - March 22, 2025

Jeff to all who knew him, passed away quietly on March 22nd. Jeff was born on the thirtieth of November, 1938 in Sweetwater TX. His parents were James F Ensminger Jr and Betty Jo Ensminger. Jeff's Mom and Dad moved to Abilene when he was around 8 years old. In 1950 two Ensminger families, Jeff's dad and his brother Olan moved to Estancia, NM where they homesteaded a farm that had been left to them.

Jeff graduated from Estancia High School in 1957, and enrolled in New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, School of Mines, in Socorro NM The proverbial rock hound, Jeff enjoyed crawling in cramped spaces and digging for minerals and rocks. After spending a year at the School of Mines, he decided to joined the Air Force, and went to basic training in Biloxi MS. During basic training he applied for the Airman's Education and Commissioning Program and was accepted at University of Arizona. In 1963 he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aerospace Engineering. Jeff's first military assignment was at Edwards AFB, working rocket propulsion research. Edwards is where Jeff met Rosalee, the "bosses" secretary, and they were married in 1965. They moved on from Edwards AFB to Sunnyvale AFS, then to Los Angeles AFS, and the last assignment Vandenberg. Jeff retired from the Air Force in 1981, and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his distinctive service of his country.

Upon his retirement from the Air Force, Jeff worked for Martin Marietta, Lockheed/ Martin until he retired in 2001. He supported the Space Shuttle Program, Titan III and IV Programs. He was presented the prestigious Golden Medallion for Space Launch Systems during his tenure with Martin Marietta.

Jeff had a lot of hobbies and was known as the fix-it-guy. He loved putting things together, and taking things apart, and could re-purpose just about anything. He also enjoyed gardening and reading. In year's past Jeff was involved in the art of stained glass. He made and sold several Tiffany-style lamps and decorative items. The next time you're in Old Orcutt, check out the stained glass clock in the building next door to the Post Office. In 1974/75 a watch repair shop was located there, and the owner commissioned Jeff to make the clock, it's amazing the glass has not been broken. He's was proud he left his foot print in Old Orcutt.

Jeff and Rosalee enjoyed retirement life. Travels to Europe and Canada, and going on road trips throughout the USA, visiting friends and family along the way. They enjoyed having friends for dinner, going to plays, and attending concerts of their favorite artists - fun times.

Jeff is survived by his wife Rosalee of 59 years, his son Jake of Nipomo and sister, Zada Beth Barnes of Sweetwater TX, Sister-in-law Mary Lou Ellis of Marble Falls TX, and many cousins, nieces, nephews throughout CA, NM and TX. He was preceded in death by his beloved son Bryan Eric. Also preceding him in death is his brother Ronald and his parents.

Jeff was inurned at Bakersfield National Cemetery on April 24th with full military honors. This was his Final Roll Call

If you would like to make a donation in Jeff's memory, please consider St Andrew United Methodist Church, 3945 S Bradley, Santa Maria CA 93455