

Born on July 4, 1930, in Hershey, Nebraska, to Jose and Magdalena Laguna, Jay’s life was a testament to resilience, hard work.
Jay’s early years were marked by immense challenges, growing up in a one bedroom house with a dirt floor. At just four years old, he had the responsibility of carrying water a mile from the nearest source to help his family in the sugar beet fields. These formative years shaped the character and determination that defined his remarkable life.
A graduate from Hershey High School, Jason enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1950, serving his country with honor as a staff sergeant until 1954. His time in the military instilled in him a sense of discipline and purpose, qualities he carried into his civilian life and is where he learned his passion for flying.
After his time in the service, Jason married the love of his life, Jeannine Gray, and embarked on a successful 21-year career as a captain for Frontier Airlines. Yet, Jay never lost sight of his true dream—becoming a rancher. He fulfilled that dream, first in Livermore, Colorado, and later on a 200-acre ranch in Crawford, Colorado, where he embraced the simple yet profound joys of ranch life with his devoted wife.
Jay was more than his accomplishments; he was a man of deep faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He always showed his love for people as he took time to hear your story, encourage you in your ambitions and show his endless patience. Those who knew Jason admired his drive, wisdom, and respect for others. He embodied humility, strength, and an unstoppable spirit.
Jason is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Jeff and Sheila Laguna, his son John Laguna, his grandchildren, Jessica, Josh, Jamie Jacqueline, Emma, and Kate, as well as his great grandchildren, NaVayen, Isabella, Cody, Raquelle, Jack, Harper, Presley and Roman who will carry forward his legacy of love and perseverance.
In honoring Jason’s life, we are reminded of the values he cherished—his deep love for the Lord, his family, and an unyielding belief in the power of hard work and kindness.
A Graveside Service will be held Friday, November 29, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado. Military Honors will be rendered in recognition of Jason's service to his country. A Memorial Service will take place Saturday, November 30, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Front Range Baptist Church in Fort Collins, Colorado. Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions are encouraged in Jason's memory to Village Missions, PO Box 197, Dallas, OR 97338-0197. Treasured memories of Jason and words of condolence for his family are welcome at resthavencolorado.com.
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Village MissionsPO Box 197, Dallas, Oregon 97338-0197
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