Obituary
Passed peacefully at Saanichton Peninsula Hospital aged 87 surrounded by loving family. He enjoyed 64 years of happily married life with his first and only love, Pat. Survived by 4 children: Debbie (Wayne), Lori (Dan),
Michael (Brenda), and Pamela, 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Predeceased by siblings Peter, Helen, and Henry. Survived by siblings George, Bernie, Betty, and Margaret.
Jake was born near New Hamburg, Ontario. Raised on a farm, he learned the value of hard work at a young age. Having a great fondness for choral and classical music, he sang in many choirs, including George St. United Mennonite Church in Waterloo and the Kitchener Philharmonic. Upon moving to Meaford, he was instrumental in forming the Stanley Knight Men’s Glee Club as well as singing with Pat in the United Church choir.
With a professional career spanning 50 years, it’s no surprise Jake’s clients came to rely on his excellent advice and friendship. The honour of being inducted into the Clarica Hall of Fame (now Sun Life) is national recognition of Jake’s outstanding service to his industry and entire community. At Jake’s request Clarica’s donation of $15,000 funded the feasibility study to start the renovation of the Meaford Hall and Cultural Centre. Jake’s passion for the community continued with his tireless efforts of fundraising for projects including the Meaford General Hospital Capital campaign, baseball park food booths, and Blue Dolphin swimming pool.
Deepest appreciation to the tireless care aides who looked after Jake so well with love, kindness, and compassion. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Parkinson’s Society or the Saanichton Peninsula Hospital Foundation.
There will be a Celebration of Jake’s Life in Meaford later this summer.
