Lonnie Jacobsen

Launt (Lonnie) Gene Jacobsen Jr. – a much-loved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend – passed away at home, surrounded by his family, on March 12, 2026, after battling emphysema resulting from his military service.

Lonnie was born on September 20, 1952, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Launt Gene and Melva Jacobsen. He grew up in Southern California, the second child in a family of six children. He enlisted in the US Army in 1969 and served a full military career. He also served as an LDS missionary in the Montana-Wyoming Mission, predominantly serving the Native American community. On June 29, 1981, he married Darcy Erickson, and they were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. Lonnie was the father of four children and grandfather of six.

Lonnie lived a life that was full of adventure and variety. He was always up for new, challenging, and exciting experiences, whether that was running marathons (ten in total), surfing along the California and Hawaii coasts, cycling with a National Guard team across the entire state of Utah multiple times, competing in martial arts tournaments, skiing backcountry runs, hiking the Uinta Highline Trail, or exploring the national parks with his wife and kids. At the same time, Lonnie also loved quieter activities that engaged his wide range of artistic talents and attention to detail. Drawing, painting, woodworking, sewing, stained glass – Lonnie could do it all. He will be remembered for his youthful energy, his independent spirit, his enthusiasm for rock and roll, how he loved to make people laugh, and the way he could make everyday moments memorable.

Lonnie is survived by his children, Heather (Kevin) Keele, Erik (Mallori) Jacobsen, Matt (Charissa) Jacobsen, and Stevie (Stephanie) Jacobsen; grandchildren, Max Keele, Hannah Jacobsen, Jared Jacobsen, Jonah Keele, Katie Jacobsen, and Christian Keele; wife, Vickie Jacobsen; siblings, Marlene (Mike) Schnabel, Barbara Jacobsen, Nyle Jacobsen, Missy Long, and Jana Jacobsen. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his eternal companion, Darcy, as well as his father, mother, and sister-in-law, Maela Jacobsen.

For all who wish to attend, a graveside service will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Midway Cemetery, 600 West 500 South, Midway, Utah.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Lonnie’s name to the National Park Foundation. https://give.nationalparks.org