Jerry Lynn Morgensen

Born on July 9, 1942, in Lubbock, Texas, and raised in Brownfield, Texas, Jerry was a trailblazer in his family, becoming the first to graduate from college. He earned his degree in Civil Engineering from Texas Tech University in 1965, setting the foundation for a remarkable career in construction that touched countless lives.

Jerry began his professional journey at DuPont and later joined Hensel Phelps in 1973 as a Project Manager. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, serving as Operations Manager in 1978, Vice President in 1980, President in 1985, CEO in 1989, and ultimately becoming the company’s first Chairman in 2005. His vision and leadership transformed Hensel Phelps into one of the largest construction firms in the United States and the leading general contractor in Colorado. Those who worked with him remember his dedication, integrity, and the profound influence he had on their lives.

Jerry’s contributions did not go unnoticed. Among his many accolades were being named a Distinguished Engineer by Texas Tech University in 2006, the Weld County Leader in 1992, Colorado Business Magazine’s Business Leader of the Year in 1997, the Bravo! Entrepreneur Award in 2001 from the Northern Colorado Business Report, and the Air Force Association’s John R. Alison Award for Industrial Leadership for his pivotal role in the post-September 11 Pentagon repair. Beyond his professional success, Jerry’s commitment to community development was evident through his active involvement in the Downtown Denver Partnership and his service on the Cache Bank of Greeley Board of Directors.

Jerry’s passions extended far beyond his work. He was a devoted Texas Tech football fan and loved traveling, golfing, boating, and family time at Horseshoe Bay. Winters spent in Marco Island, with his wife Lynda, brought him immense joy. A proud alumnus of the Boy Scouts of America, Jerry’s experiences as a Scout instilled in him a lifelong love for the outdoors and a deep sense of community.

Jerry’s family meant everything to him. He is survived by his wife, Lynda Carol Morgensen; her daughters Kelly Corey (husband Bob) and their children Rob, Jim, and Rebecca; Erin Myers (husband Scott); and Shannon Crowe and her children Sophie and Christopher. He is also survived by his daughters Angela Dee Hewitt (husband Clark) and their children Carter and Graham; and Nicole Lynn Runkels (husband Dwight) and their children Andrew, Samuel, Ryan, and Grace. Additional surviving family members include his sister-in-law (who he considered his own) Laura Leatherwood (husband Claude) and their daughter Stephanie and family; his sister-in-law Kim Austin and her children Ashley, Danny, Ian, Maddie, and their families; his brother Ricky and family; and his sister Irene and family. Jerry was proceeded in death by his first wife, of 42 years, Linda Dee Austin; his brother-in-law Larry Austin; and his parents.

Jerry’s legacy is one of unwavering kindness, generosity, and a heartfelt commitment to those he loved. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on December 16, 2024, at First United Methodist Church in Greeley, located at 917 10th Ave, Greeley, CO 80631. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 AM. A reception will take place at the Greeley Country Club. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Samaritan's Purse.