Jon Ambrose Lokensgard

Jon A. Lokensgard, 89, of Mesa, passed away June 5, 2023 at Desert Springs Communities. Jon was born May 14, 1934, in Tracy, MN, son of Ethel (Kelley) and Art Lokensgard. He grew up in Tracy and St. Paul, MN and attended University High School, graduating in 1952. He attended the University of Minnesota and received his B.S. degree in 1956 and M.A. in 1962.

Jon held his family as always number one in his priorities. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandpa. He married Diane Lien of Richfield, MN in 1961. Jon and Diane had three boys, Jeffrey, Steven and Mikel. Preceding Jon in death were his parents, Art and Ethel of St. Paul, and his beloved wife of 46 years, Diane. He is survived by sons Jeffrey (Adalicia) of Mesa, AZ, Steven (Sarah Isakson) of St. Anthony, MN, and Mikel (Michelle) of Haslet, TX. Also, the six grandchildren he loved very much, Kelley, Madison Driver (Dustin), Emma, Viktor, Jack, Tanya and two great grandchildren Preston Driver and Nora Driver. His brother, David, lives in Apple Valley, MN.

Jon devoted his career to public education. He taught English at Lincoln Jr. High in Minneapolis and then Richfield Senior High. The family moved to Madison, WI in 1963 where he became principal of Lincoln Jr. High and later, of East High. He earned his Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin in 1969. Jon then served as Director of Secondary Education in Scottsdale, AZ, Assistant Superintendent in Roseville, MN, Superintendent in Wyckoff, NJ, Webster Groves, MO, and Assistant in Rapid City, SD. His final position was Superintendent in Sierra Vista, AZ, where he was named State Superintendent of the Year in 1993. Upon retirement, Jon and Diane moved to Las Vegas, where he worked for eight years at the Imperial Palace.

Jon was active in community service all his life. After six months on active duty, Jon served in the US Army Reserve as a Signal Corps officer for twelve years and received an honorable discharge as a Captain. He was a long-time member of the Masonic Lodge Scottish Rite, and most recently, El Zaribah Shrine of Phoenix. He was a dedicated member of the Sons of the American Revolution and served as an officer in the Fort Huachuca Chapter and the local Palo Verde Chapter.

Jon was a true "people person". He prioritized spending time with friends and family and made new friendships throughout his life. He was an avid party planner and was happiest when surrounded by loved ones, playing cards or telling a great story or joke. Jon and his wife Diane shared a passion for theater and music. He rooted for local sports teams, he was an active member of his church and devoted to his children and grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Mesa, 161 N. Mesa Drive, on July 14 at 11:00am. It is requested that memorials be sent to the music department of the church.