Lowell Jensen Budge

Lowell Jensen Budge, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026, in Orem, Utah at the age of 88.Lowell was born on July 3, 1937, in Malad Idaho - the fifth of nine children born to Lawrence Rushton Budge and Blanche Elvina Jensen. He grew up in Malad, Idaho, where he developed a strong work ethic while helping in the family business, Budge's Honey. Those early years shaped the values of hard work and faith that would guide his life.While attending Malad High School, Lowell was involved in student government and athletics. He was a standout athlete, playing baseball, basketball, and football. He was a proud member of the 1954 state championship football team. After graduating from Malad High School, he continued his education at Snow College, earning an associate's degree, and later graduated from Utah State University with a bachelor's degree.On May 29, 1957, Lowell married his high school sweetheart, Deanna Kay Price, in the Logan Temple. Their marriage of nearly six decades was filled with love, faith, and dedication to family. Together they raised five children: Tracy Jean Ward (Ken), Lawrence Todd Budge (Lori), Shelly Sue Crespo (Frank), Lowell Jared Budge (Monica), and Sesly Ann Constantineau (Donny).Following his college graduation, Lowell accepted a position at Pittsburg High School (Pittsburg, CA) where he spent the next 38 years teaching drivers' education and coaching. He coached tennis, swimming, golf, baseball, and basketball, and he deeply influenced generations of students and athletes. Lowell had a passion for sports that lasted throughout his life. He was an avid fisherman and continued pitching fast-pitch softball until he was 55 years old. One of his proudest athletic accomplishments was being named MVP of the 1956 All-Church Softball Tournament.Lowell was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and devoted many years of service to the Church. He served for 17 years in the bishopric—10 years as a counselor and 7 years as bishop. Later in life, he and Deanna served together as missionaries in the Baltimore, Maryland Mission, an experience that brought them great joy.After retiring, Lowell and Deanna settled in Smithfield, Utah, where they enjoyed spending time with family and friends, fishing and camping, and supporting their growing posterity.Lowell is survived by four children, 2 son-in-laws, 2 daughter-in-laws, 21 grandchildren, 77 great-grandchildren, and four siblings. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Deanna; son, Lowell Jared; son-in-law Kenneth Ward; parents; four siblings; and two grandchildren.Lowell will be remembered for his steady faith, quiet strength, sense of humor, love of sports, and deep devotion to his family - his greatest joy.Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 12 noon at the Malad LDS 3rd Ward Chapel 400 N. 200 W. Malad, Idaho 83252. A viewing will be help prior to the service from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the church. Interment will take place at Malad City Cemetery immediately following the services.