Jeffrey Dean Sorensen was born in Helena, Montana, on September 23, 1958, the third child of Delbert and Bette (Folkvord) Sorensen. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to Sidney, Montana. Jeff went through his grade school years in Sidney. Sidney was the hometown of the Sorensen family, and at that time was filled with years of family gatherings and activities.
In 1969, the family moved to Circle, Montana, where Jeff attended most of middle school years. While there, he was active in the Boy Scouts, Circle Rifle Club, and his local church groups. He also participated in track and field, wrestling, baseball, and football. He and his brother, Kirk, loved riding their first motorcycle. It was an old Honda 50cc trail bike, and quite frankly, rode that bike to death.
In 1973, the family moved to Glasgow, Montana, where Jeff finished his schooling. While in Glasgow, Jeff was very active in boy scouts, baseball, swimming and diving, football, wrestling, and track & field. He was also in the high school marching band, pep band, and played bass guitar in one of the best, if not the best, high school stage bands in the state. Even though he excelled in football and track & field, his fondest memories were of all the band activities. He always said that the best thing he got from high school was the music.
On December 22, 1976, during his senior year of high school, Jeff enlisted in the US Army under the delayed enlistment program for a 6 year obligation, of 3 years active duty and 3 years of inactive reserve duty. After graduating from high school and working one last summer around home, he left for basic training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, in August of 1977.
After completing his Advanced Individual Training at the US Army Military School, at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, he returned home on leave, and on July 14, 1978, he was united in the marriage to Rene Baney, of Glasgow.
Ten days after their marriage Jeff left for Camp Casey, South Korea, for a 1 year tour of hardship duty, leaving Rene to finish high school, back in the states. He was assigned to the 329th Army Security Agency Company of the 2nd Infantry Division.
He returned state side in August of 1979, and he and Rene finished his last year of Army active Duty with the 313th Military Intelligence Company, with the 82nd Airborne Division, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
Upon being honorably discharged from the Army, Jeff and Rene returned to Sidney in August of 1980. While in Sidney, Jeff worked in the oil patch. He worked many jobs including: seismograph exploration drilling, pipeline construction, oil well workover rigs, mud hauling, oilfield location construction, and road construction. Also while in Sidney their first son, Shawn, was born.
As the oil patch work was going bust, April of 1989, Jeff was accepted to join the Montana Highway Patrol Cadet Program in Helena, Montana, and packed up the family and moved to Helena. While in Helena, as a cadet, Jeff worked as a dispatcher for the patrol. After completing the cadet program in April of 1990, Jeff entered the Montana Highway Patrol Academy in Bozeman. Upon completing the academy and field training, in September of 1990; Jeff was stationed as a patrolman in Colstrip.
After moving to Colstrip, Sheldon and Sonny were added to the family. Jeff was very active in the community, and was involved in the youth activities. He coached Special Olympics, youth bowling, AAU Wrestling, Flag Football, and Baseball. He also served as Governor of the Moose. In order to supplement his income, he worked several different part time jobs over the years, including: reserve deputy, security guard at the plant, bus driving, and he even worked the Pro Shop at the golf course. He and Rene operated the Midtown Cinema for a couple years, and were members of the Colstrip Area Association of Businesses.
After spending 14 years with the Montana Highway Patrol Jeff resigned and was hired at the power plant, where he worked his way up to be a Control Room Operator. He was very thankful for his job because of all the years of struggling to stay ahead and finally had a job that allowed him to properly provide for his family.
In August of 2009, after 31 year of marriage, Jeff and the boys tragically lost Rene. The following months were very trying for them but slowly, with help from family and friends, they began to rebuild their life and continued on.
After thirty-some years of absence, Jeff decided to rekindle his passion for riding motorcycles, and bought his first Harley in October. He rode it everywhere he could. The driver examiner was a little surprised when Jeff showed up to test for his motorcycle endorsement in the middle of December. Some people questioned his sanity when seeing him ride it to work with the temperature only 35 degrees.
On June 20, 2010, Jeff and Susan Stabelfeldt were united in marriage. It all started with a motorcycle ride to Big Timber, with the Billings Chapter of the Harley Owners Group. After a long day of riding and returning to Billings, that’s when the tornado hit, and took the roof off the Metra. Jeff said that their relationship started with a tornado and was a whirlwind ever since.
Susan and Jeff loved riding the bike, and after owning a couple Harleys, Jeff fulfilled his dream of owning an Indian once Indian Motorcycles opened a dealership in Sturgis. They logged tens of thousands of miles together on the roads in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, North Dakota, and especially, the Black Hills of South Dakota. They were members of the Montana Patriot Guard Riders that protect and honor deceased military personnel at funeral and memorials. Jeff’s goal after retirement was for them to purchase a little cabin and spend the rest of their lives riding bike and siting on the front porch of the cabin in the evenings, playing guitar, and watching all the bikes ride by.
Susan and Jeff also loved watching what the grandkids were involved in. Speech and Drama meets, band and choir concerts, musicals and plays, football, track, wresting, and many other events.
Susan and Jeff had many issues and obstacles to deal with throughout their marriage. Everything you could think of seemed to pop up from both sides of the family. The one thing that Jeff always maintained about their marriage was that during those trials, one didn’t walk in front or behind the other. They walked hand in hand, side by side, and dealt with each situation together. They were a team.
Jeff was preceded in death by his father and mother, Delbert and Bette Sorensen, and his first wife, Rene. He is survived by his wife, Susan Stabelfeldt; his sons: Shawn Sorensen of Miles City, Sheldon (Heidi) Sorensen of Billings, and Sonny Sorensen of Forsyth; his step sons: Jeremiah Johnson of Billings, Joshua Johnson of Colstrip, and John (Sierra) Ray of Bozeman; ten step grandchildren; sisters, Debra Kraenzel of Tennessee and Peggy Sorensen of Texas; brother, Kirk (Rose) Young of Kansas; and numerous nephews and nieces.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
2:00 PM
Thursday June 8, 2017
Colstrip Highschool Auditorium
Colstrip, MT 59323
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
2:00 PM
Thursday June 8, 2017
Colstrip Highschool Auditorium
Colstrip, MT 59323
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pat & george riedel says
Susan and family
Sorry to hear that Jeff has passed. Thinking of you all.
Diana Robinette says
I am here for you Susan, Jeff is no longer in pain, remember all the fun and good times you two shared. Hold on to your belief in Jesus, he will always be there for you.
Donna McCulloch says
Susan, Shawn, Sheldon and Sonny,
I was sorry to hear that Jeff had passed. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Hold tight to the good memories you have and may you find peace in the knowledge that you will be reunited one day.
Yvonne Umpierre says
Susan, although I never met Jeff, from all the photos I saw of you two, he seemed a wonderful person. May he rest in peace. Know my family and I are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Love you my friend.
Connie and Jesse Barnhart says
To the family of Jeff Sorenson: We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Jeffery Sorenson. We are eternally grateful to him for saving Elliott, our son, in 2001. On an October night, as a highway patrolman, he alertly noticed the small tachometer light far away that glowed out in a darkened field. By swiftly crawling into the overturned pickup and rescuing Elliott from strangulation from his seat belt, he saved our son. He was truly a deserving recipient of the Hedstrom Award which is given to Montana HIghway Patrol Officers who have served above and beyond the call of duty by providing valorous and meritorious service. Jeff Sorenson was our angel on earth.
Connie and Jesse Barnhart
Dannette Cremer says
To all of Jeff’s family, my sincere condolences. I’ve met Jeff only once, but we’ve talked and it was amazing to me to hear such a good attitude after facing so many roadblocks set before him. May he be at peace and may you keep his memory close to your heart. Sending prayers.
Elliott Barnhart says
To all of Jeff’s family: I often think back to the night Jeff saved my life when he pulled me out of my wrecked pickup while he was on patrol. What I would have missed if he had not been there that night. I have two young boys now and one day, when they are old enough I plan to tell them about Jeff. He will be missed but not forgotten.
Jeannette Barreto says
Sheldon, Susan and family,
I am very sorry for your loss. May you find comfort that he is at peace and pain free.
Marlys Schara Lee says
I am so sorry to hear about Jeff. We were great friends when we were in Jr. High back in Circle. It was awesome to get to know each other again as adults when I moved to Forsyth. My thoughts are with you!
Tim Fulton says
Jeff ole buddy, I will always think of the great times we had. You will be missed my friend.
Prggy Certain says
Susan and family,
Sorry to hear of your most recent loss, with the passing of Jeff so closely following the passing of Jeane.
My prayers are with you. Hugs, Peggy
Tom and Shirley Skinner says
Susan and family.. . we are so sorry about Jeff. You know you have been and continue to be lifted up in our prayers. You have some truly wonderful memories to hold close to your heart until you are again reunited. Love you…
Erma & Jackie Jasper. says
So sorry Peggy , we love very much and will be praying for u and your Family. I May the loving compassion, of God be with u! member family of your Greelawn, Erma & Jackie Jasper.
Buggs and Loni Hartman says
May God bless your family during this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We are so very very sorry for the loss of such a very kind man. Buggs and Loni Hartman
Elaine says
We went to high school together and what a guy! He was absolutely right, our pro band was tops! We rekindled our friendship when he was MHP and started at the Sheriff’s office. So many memories, RIP Jeff, I will miss your great smile and sense of humor!
Paul Clemmer says
Jeff Sorenson, was a class of 1977 graduate from Glasgow Montana, Member of four state championship teams:1976 undefeated class A football and 1975, 1976 and 1977 class A track, Jeff was a friend, a teammate, a confidante and so much more! I’m so glad we reconnected, God bless! You went out the same way you lived your life, YOUR WAY!! I will See you when its my time!
Gomo & Ranoda says
Susan & boys, we are so sorry to hear that Jeff passed. We have and will continue to pray for you all, during this very difficult time. Jeff was a great guy and will be missed by many. Love & prayers, Gomo & Ranoda
Barbara Bishop says
Susan and family, so sorry for your lost! Know that he’s in a better place! He’s in heaven looking down on you! He’s having a good time with all who have gone before him! He might be playing pool with Patsy right now!! I love you guys!! Prayers!!
Carla Hecker says
Susan and all loved ones of Jeff, I am so sorry for your loss. I hope and pray that you may find comfort in your loving memories of him. Love and prayers, Carla Hecker
cathi sopher and family says
Susan and family;
I remember once when Jeff was on HP and he pulled us over, ok we deserved it, 2 small kids in truck along with Randy and I , he was so awesome with the kids as they were scared jeff was going to haul their daddy to jail, and he gave each of them a small teddy bear and let them play with the lights and siren,in front of grandparents house, what a kind heart he had, always a smile and hug no matter where we met, that was my buddy Jeff, I was so glad you to were together when I heard, I knew you would be good together, our hearts are sadden by the news, and we lift you up to the Lord for comfort and strength, I am thankful for the friendship and memories I have and I will learn to play them drums I bought from ya Jeff and you can guide me on my journey with them….Ride Free my friend, hugs cathi, mitch and our family,,,
Debra Nesbitt says
Thoughts and prayers are with you my friend, please let me know if you need anything, call anytime, love DEB
Jenny Olson says
I am saddened to hear of Jeff’s passing, I was blessed to have known him over the years through working with Shawn. Shawn loved his father unconditionally; R.I.P
Jenny @ EMI
Michael Speelman says
Prayers to Jeff’s Family. I had the Privilege of working with Jeff when he was with the MHP. we worked many MVA’s together, I enjoyed working them when Jeff was on the scene we had a lots of laughs and it made the long nights go by quickly. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Todd Kerchal says
I moved to Glasgow in 1976. I was “the new kid” in the high school and it wasn’t long before Jeff and I connected and developed a very strong bond. I only lived in Glasgow for a year as my family continued to move on, but in that year, Jeff and I did a LOT of living. We had other great friends, but ours was something different. We really were best buds. I admired Jeff’s athletic abilities and his talent for Concert Band at GHS. After moving away, we sort of fell out of touch. Many years passed and I moved my family to Billings from Atlanta, GA in 1995. Shortly after arriving “home” to Montana, I took a business trip to Miles City where Jeff the Highway Patrolman and I were able to meet for lunch. We saw each other more as the years went by. I’ll Never forget you Jeff Sorensen. One day, I will see you again. It will be nice to have you show me around the place.
Shaun and Kit Flynn says
Jeff was our neighbor and friend when we lived in Colstrip. We want to wish our condolences to the family. May God be with you in your time of need. And Jeff, May God be with you until we meet again.
Bill and Glennda Wolf says
Susan sincere condolences to you on the loss of Jeff. I can only say how sorry I am. My prayers are with you. Glennda
Darrell & Shirl Morris says
So sorry and our deepest condolences for your loss. I enjoyed the time that Jeff and I worked together at the plant on crew 1. We spent a lot of time talking about younger days. May you find some piece knowing that Jeff touched so many people during his life. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Wendy Nelson says
2356 mahogany circle
Wendy Nelson says
So sorry to hear about Jeff the family is in my thoughts and prayers
Welcov Home Health, Marlus, Jackie, Vicki, Jannell, Peggy, Tara, and Nicole says
My family met Jeff when Sheldon was in high school. He always had a smile on his face no matter what was happening in his life. May God’s peace be with all of you and comfort you. There is life after death for all who believe in Christ.
Brian and Kristy Torgerson says
We are so very sorry for your loss of Jeff. He was a great guy and we have alot of great memories of him. Prayers to your family.
Debbie Rice says
Susan, I am so sorry for you and the kids…… I did not know Jeff, and that is apparently my loss. It appears he was a great human being, with tons of talent, compassion and love. I wish you could have had more time together (it goes by so fast!!!), but cherish the memories of the time you had. My heart is broken for you, to lose the love of your life is a terrible thing. Lean on your faith, family and friends. Let people help you… Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers…..
Cindy Lebie says
Susan and family. I’m so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all.
J. Moore/Volunteer says
To the Family of Jeffrey Sorensen,
So sorry to learn about the loss of your Dear Loved One, Jeffrey. Please know that so many people share your grief with you to help you through this difficult time of sorrow. Please accept my deepest condolences as we await the time when Christ Jesus will awaken all of those who have fallen asleep in death; including your Beloved, Jeffrey.
(John 11:41-44)
Lori Utter says
Dearest Sorensen Family,
I just heard about Jeff’s passing, or we would be there with you today. What a sad loss. He was such a wonderful man…. we had a great visit when he came to Sidney for my mom’s funeral in 2011. And I have the best memories of camping when we were kids and growing up in “the other neighborhood”! God Bless You All!
You are in our thoughts and prayers today.
Lori and Russ Utter and all the Harris Family in Sidney
angela bergeson says
I went to school with Jeff…. hugs
Patrick Sheehan says
Sorry for your loss.