Paul Erik Jensen
Paul Erik Jensen lost his 10 month battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, ALS, on May 20th, 2023 near his home at the EvergreenHealth Hospice Care. Paul Jensen lived a life of grace, dignity, kindness and service.
Paul was born in Seattle, WA on April 5th, 1955. He spent his formative years in Kirkland where his parents, Svend Aage and Elsa Helene (Andersen) Jensen, settled after immigrating from Denmark. Paul went to the University of Washington and was a lifelong Husky fan which created an ongoing rivalry with a dear colleague, a Cougar fan. Paul earned a degree in Business and began his career in banking in Wenatchee.
Paul later earned his Master in Library Science from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Upon graduation Paul returned to his beloved Pacific Northwest where he began working for the King County Library System, in various positions and locations. He retired April 2020 to care for his ailing mother.
Paul was one of the kindest, most thoughtful people and he was so much more. He was truly an intellectual who could converse on countless topics; he was warm and caring and was genuinely interested in his coworkers and the patrons who frequented the libraries where he worked. Paul had an analytical mind which allowed him to see issues from various points of view. He was a huge supporter of libraries and the services they provide and proud of his work at the King County Library System. He had the greatest sense of humor: he was witty with impeccable timing.
Paul loved all things Danish! He was an avid reader, a hard worker, a devout Christian and a skilled birder. He loved nature and the Pacific Northwest, specifically Kirkland, the San Juan Islands and Whidbey Island. He adored West Highland Terriers, especially his dear Peaches and Patrick. He also loved photography, browsing bookstores and giving gifts-the best of which was his company.
Paul was a great friend and had many devoted friends who were with him to the end. He was loved and admired by all for not only the graciousness and respect he gave everyone he met, but also for his impeccable taste in clothing and well ironed shirts. Paul is survived by his beloved daughter Grace Jensen.
Funeral Services will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church; 105 State Street S, Kirkland, WA 98033 on October 7th at 11:00am.
https://www.stjohnskirkland.org
Please no flowers. Donations can be made to:
Westie Rescue of California; https://www.westierescueca.com
or The ALS Association, Evergreen Chapter; https://www.als.org
8 Responses to “Paul Erik Jensen”
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Paul will be missed by everyone whose life he touched.
He was so much fun, had a large list of Sven and Oly jokes and gave so much to his friends.
We will be friends always and forever. Death does not break that bond.
Miss you, dad.
Paul was one of the kind and positive persons I met after moving to US. Will miss him 🙁
Lovely obituary describing Paul perfectly. He was a gentleman unsurpassed, kind, caring and a good listener to all of us who had the benefit of working with him at the King County Library System. He will be missed not only for his friendship, but for his wonderful and surprising sense of humor. We were lucky to have known him.
Paul and I began to work together when the library system combined branches. I found him to be such a friendly and amicable person. He was very supportive of me and his staff during this transition. I found how much his staff liked and valued him as their supervisor. He was always willing to do and help where needed. I was so sorry and saddened to hear of his passing. He’ll be missed by many. Job well done, Paul!
I really enjoyed working with Paul over the years and getting to know him. His kindness and generosity was inspirational. Thank you, Paul! We miss you!
He had the softest, kindness voice.
Such a gentle person.
Whenever my phone rang and Paul’s name came up, I would start to smile even before answering. He had a combination of warmth and professionalism that came from the heart. His influence continues in the people he touched throughout his life.