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Steven Jensen Obituary
CARBONDALE - Dr. Steven C. Jensen, 71, born in Ralston, Nebraska, on Aug. 28, 1952, tragically lost his battle with liver cancer and went home to be with the Lord on June 11, 2024. As he always wanted it put: "I tried to tell them I was sick!"
Dr. J was the director of radiologic sciences at Southern Illinois University from 1982 to 2011. Throughout his career in education, Steve made remarkable, lasting impacts on thousands of students.
Steve was a man of many talents: a college track athlete, 70's rock band drummer, avid golfer, hunter, and fisherman, master deck builder, comedic genius, and able to belch the alphabet. He could turn any phrase into a song and frequently did to the delight of his children and grandchildren. Some of his classics remain "Goobers and Cheese" and "The Jensen Family (to the tune of the Adams Family)."
But above all, Steve was a family man. He married the love of his life, Cathy, on April 7, 1979. Over the years, Steve and Cathy have discipled many believers and helped save numerous marriages by lovingly coming alongside couples to help counsel and share their own testimonies. He ensured his children and grandchildren always knew how much they were loved, and pointed them to Jesus and a life that honors Him. He was at every event, game, ceremony, dinner, and banquet he possibly could be. He constantly encouraged their talents and hobbies and was the Biggest Fan of each one.
Steve, a stubborn man in life, still amazed us with the vivacity with which he battled cancer. To the very end, he refused to give up and actively looked for ways to make his loved ones laugh.
Steve is survived by his wife of 45 years, Catherine (Wheeler) Jensen; children, Matt (Megan) Jensen of Gretna, Nebraska, Jaimie (Travis) Brouillette of College Station, Texas, Jordan (Josh) Abell of College Station, Texas, Emily (Gage) Cummins of O'Fallon, Missouri, and grandchildren, Rebecca, Grace, Ethan, Brooke, Alexander, Jensen, Jemma, and Joseph.
Visitation at noon with the funeral to follow at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, June 22, will be held at Christland Church, 4050 Hwy 6 S., College Station, TX 77845.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Steve's honor to the Tim Tebow Foundation.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Steven Jensen
6 Entries
Shelby Johnston
July 5, 2024
Speaking as one of the many students (class of 2005) Dr. J had a lasting impact on, I send my most sincere condolences. I carry is words of wisdom with me to this very day. He was a remarkable human and an amazing teacher.
Judy Rawls
June 26, 2024
Dear Cathy,
I'm so sorry for your loss of Steve. Prayers lifted that our Heavenly Father will comfort you and the family with the peace that He can bring.
Karen McNeely McMinn
June 22, 2024
Sending my condolences to the family and friends who knew Mr. Jensen. Worshipped at the same church ...Murdale Baptist several years back in Carbondale IL. Very friendly, cordial man and very faithful to His family and church attendance at the time of ministries there. So sorry He became ill at a early age. Keep His legacy alive in your hearts, souls, and minds. He was a busy Professional I read and knew where His priorities and missions were the strongest. Hugs and Prayers. Karen McNeely McMinn Carbondale IL
Darla Shelby
June 21, 2024
Cathy and family,
We're shocked and saddened to hear about Steve's passing. We will be praying for your comfort and strength from the Holy Spirit as only He can give. May God bless and keep you all.
Lillian Greathouse
June 21, 2024
Cathy, so sorry to hear of Steve's passing. I'm in Charleston, Illinois , and ask radiologists where they got their training. I do meet some SIU people and even some who had Steve as a teacher. Many prayers for peace and comfort for you and your family.
Rod Collard
June 20, 2024
Cathy and family. You might not remember me but I started teaching Automotive Technology at SIU in 1986. I believe that I was on at least one committee with Steve but for sure notice you and Steve as a model couple that I wanted to mimic. You two were great Christian examples and agree have made countless positive connections with so many students. God bless you. Rod Collard, SIU Automotive Technology.
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