Steven Gary Jensen, 63, passed away February 14, 2012, at his home in the Texas Hill Country south of Austin, with his wife Candace by his side. He was born in Houston, Texas, on January 12, 1949. He graduated from Galena Park High School in 1967 where he enjoyed taking part in choir and football and from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Enforcement in 1971.

Steve’s career in criminal enforcement began as a rookie with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF) in El Paso. While stationed in El Paso, Steve came to enjoy the desert environment suited to dirt bikes, motorcycles, and three-wheelers. Some of his fondest memories were of times he spent enjoying these outdoor activities with men who became lifelong friends.

Eventually his career with the BATF brought him back to his home town of Houston, where he added tactical support officer to his list of accomplishments. In 1993, he participated with fellow agents in the lawful execution of a Federal arrest and search warrant at the Branch Davidian Compound in Waco, Texas. He received the Distinguished Service Medal for Exemplary Performance of Duty for conspicuous gallantry. The award stated that “Special Agent Jensen, after having been subjected to sustained gunfire and a grenade attack during the execution of Federal arrest and search warrants, unhesitatingly moved forward during the tenuous cease-fire to assist in the recovery of two mortally wounded comrades from a roof of the Branch Davidian Compound. Leaving the relative safety of his position and foregoing the opportunity to withdraw, Special Agent Jensen voluntarily placed himself under direct observation of the heavily armed Branch Davidians within the compound. His display of courage and loyalty was an inspiration to all. Special Agent Jensen’s performance exemplifies the highest traditions of Federal Law Enforcement.”

In 2003 Steve and his wife, Candace, retired to the Texas Hill Country to build their dream home on 25 acres overlooking rolling hills. Walking his yellow lab Maggie over his land, viewing the gorgeous sunsets from the porch of their retirement home, and hosting gatherings of family and friends became some of his favorite pastimes. Steve’s lifelong passion for all types of outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, snow skiing, and motorcycle riding continued throughout his retirement.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Everett (Ted) and Anita Jensen, and brother, Gordon Jensen, who was a Galena Park Police Officer when he was killed in the line of duty.

Steve is survived by his wife of 33 years, Candace Jensen, and his three sons: Gary Jensen and wife Kimberly; Eric Jensen; and Evan Jensen and his wife Casey. He is also survived by three precious grandsons. One of his greatest joys was the time he spent with his grandsons Ethan Scott Alexander Jensen and Parker Tully Jensen. His third grandson, Caleb Steven Jensen, was born two days after Steve’s death. Steve mourned the loss of knowing and loving his third grandson Caleb, and his first granddaughter who will join the family in May. His family and friends are committed to sharing fond memories of Steve and all he loved and treasured in life. These memories will endure in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved him.

Steve requested that a Celebration of Life event be held at their Hill Country home where he and Candace shared so many good times with family and friends. The date of this event will be shared with family and friends in the near future.