Lonn "Lonnie" Eldon Jelsma, 68, of Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away on January 26, 2024. Lonnie was born on March 2, 1955, in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He was an outgoing person who loved to talk to anyone, making everyone feel welcome. Lonnie had a passion for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, water skiing, and shooting guns.
Lonnie had a successful career with The International Union of Operating Engineers Local Union NO. 3, from which he retired as a mechanic, welder and operator after many years of dedicated service.
Lonnie is survived by his son Thomas Jelsma (Jennie), his daughter Jose Jelsma (Robert Jr.), four grandchildren, Kurston (Cory), Haylie, Hannah, and Robert III (Alexis), as well as two great-grandchildren, Acien and Zephren. He is also survived by his sisters Judy Brown and Lonna Graham.
Lonnie was preceded in death by his wife Cathy Jelsma, his sister JoAnn, his brothers Nute and Duke, and his parents Leon and Betty Jelsma.
A loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, Lonnie will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His warm personality and love for the outdoors will be remembered fondly by his family and friends.
A private memorial service will be held to celebrate Lonnie's life and to honor his memory to be determined at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to a charity of your choice in Lonnie's name.
Please join us in remembering and celebrating the life of Lonnie Jelsma.
Dear Jose and Thomas,
We send our love as you honor your dad at this time. Although our time with Lonnie was brief we were honored to have met him.
May your memories of this great dad bring peace and comfort.
With Love,
Friend at Suncrest Hospice
Thomas and Jose'
I'm so sorry about Dad. I think of all the crazy times we had when we were young. Dad was always out to get everyone riled up especially Bear and Mom!! Your family was such a huge part of my life. Both of them were always so good to me. I will be forever grateful for all of the love and fun.
I love you both!!!
