Venita Estell Jensen

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Venita Estell Jensen of Haines, Oregon.

Venita was born on April 4th, 1928. She was one of four children born to Ben and Maggie Barber of Hydro, Oklahoma. After graduating from school in 1946, Venita married her first husband, Jessie Gore of Vian, Oklahoma. During their thirty-one years of marriage, they had three children.

Venita passed on May 8th, 2023, in her home at the age of 95.

Venita was often referred to as "The Cake Lady from Haines."  She made cakes to order for all kinds of events but was best known for her wedding cakes, which were true works of art. Venita had a natural need for knowledge and a desire to learn, which served her well in all her endeavors. Along with her cake business, Venita taught herself to be a very accomplished Scroll Sawyer; her fret work clocks and other creations remain as a testament to her talent. In her early years, Venita wore many hats, a few of which are of note. She was a Police Officer in Oklahoma City. She was an Aide to Oklahoma State Representative Robert 0. Cunningham, and after moving west with her family to Reno, Nevada, she opened and operated an accounting office, General Bookkeeping Services of Nevada, until her retirement in 1978. Venita decided a change was in order and moved with her son and Granddaughter to Baker City, Oregon, where she met Charles Jensen. The couple was married in 1984.

Venita was preceded in death by her first husband, Jessie Gore, her late husband, Charles Jensen of Haines, and her Daughter, Mary (Jae) Janita Sandoval of Seattle, Washington. Venita is survived by her two sons, James (Phillip) Gore of Huntington, Oregon, and Gary Jeff Gore, and his wife, Rhonda of Baker City, Oregon. As per her wishes, there will not be a service. Please feel free to donate to your favorite charity as a remembrance if you wish. Donations may be sent to Coles Tribute Center, 1950 Place Street, Baker City, Oregon; please make your checks out to the charity of your choosing.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Venita Estell Jensen, please visit our floral store.