Joseph Morton Jensen

Joseph Morton Jensen “Mote” passed away peacefully in his sleep the morning of January 18, 2023. Mote was born in Ogden, Utah on July 8, 1931 to Francis and Vee Galbraith Jensen. He graduated from Ogden High School in 1948 and he maintained close friendships with his childhood friends throughout his life. 

After high school, he started working for Mountain Bell Telephone Company as a lineman. When the Korean War started, he enlisted in the U. S.  Army as a paratrooper and soon made Sergeant. This is where he gained a love for his country and he instilled his sense of patriotism in his daughters and grandchildren. 

After returning home from service, he met Diana Prunty and they married in July 1955. They made their home in Ogden, Utah and soon welcomed their daughter Lorre in 1956. A short time later, he moved his family to Bountiful where he resided until 1999. Not long after Mote and Diana became empty nesters, their daughter April came along much to their surprise in 1975. 

Mote retired at the age of 52 from the telephone company as a Supervising Engineer. He soon became restless and found the perfect fit for his free time.  He began working with the grounds crew at Davis Park Golf Course.  He was able to enjoy two of his favorite hobbies at the same time; golf and gardening.  He made many friends and played 18 holes of golf nearly every day for at least 10 years. 

After his wife Diana passed away, he relocated  to Mesquite, Nevada so he could enjoy the warmer weather and play golf year round.   He became a fixture at the Eureka Casino, where he was known as “Papa Joe”, and soon became everyone’s favorite person. He met and married Laneeda Lloyd, who passed away in 2013. 

Mote had an amazing ability to fix anything. He did a lot of woodworking and everything he built or touched became things of beauty. 

He is survived by his daughters Lorre (Shane) Fleming and April (Todd) Williams. Grandchildren; Michelle, Kate, Tyler, Alyssa, Jaren, Avery, Max, Addison and 3 great grandchildren.   All of his grandkids had a close relationship with him.   They all have a deep love for him and cherish all of  the memories they have.  

Everyone that met Mote, loved Mote. He truly was the kindest, most generous person.   He touched many lives and he will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

As per Mote’s request, a private family service will be held at a later date.