Obituary: Jensen, Paul E.
Age 67
He grew up in an upper middle class family with eight brothers and sisters.
His family owned an L.A. based construction company that installed water and sewer lines.
Paul went to work for the family business after graduating from Cal Poly with a degree in English Literature.
Paul’s wife was an RN who he referred to as the love of his life and best friend.
Nearly 35 years ago she and his adopted 13 year-old daughter were traveling to visit relatives and were struck by a drunk driver, killing both instantly.
Over the past 27 years, in Spokane, Paul has lived in hobo camps, on the streets, in detox, one room hotels, one bedroom apartments, small group homes and Bethany Place.
Over the years he has visited ICU several times, but always got better.
He truly had nine lives.
Paul’s favorite place to live was in the camps as he was free there.
He truly was a “free spirit” Along the way Paul built quite a support group of doctors, social workers, caregivers, friends and the staff at Bethany Place.
They all cared a great deal about his well being.
His life’s struggle was learning to deal with the grief of losing his wife and stepdaughter.
Paul was always an articulate, loving, peaceful man who was known for his compassion for others like him.
He was always a very private person who loved to read books, write, do arts and crafts and listen to his favorite music from the 50s, 60s & 70s.
He was present at Woodstock and his all time favorite singer was Neil Young.
In 1969 Paul Anka wrote “My way” and Sinatra sang it, but Paul lived it.
After hanging out with Paul in Winslow, Arizona in the early 1970s, the Eagles were inspired to write “Take it to the Limit”.
Paul was one of a kind and he made life interesting and we’re all are going to miss him.
A Memorial service for Paul will be held Saturday, April 27, 2013 at 2 pm at Mending Fences Ministry located at 1906 East Sprague Avenue, Spokane, WA with Pastor Kevin Ch’en officiating.
Memorial donations can be made to Mending Fences Ministry in Paul’s name.