Larry "Jake" Jacobs

Larry "Jake" Jacobs, a treasured member of the Paola community, passed away on June 21, 2025, at the Olathe Hospice House at the age of 84. Born on November 26, 1940, in Paola, Kansas, Jake lived a life filled with work, family, and fellowship.

Jake's career was marked by dedication and skill, starting as a quality control inspector at Taylor Forge Manufacturing. He also had a passion for painting tractors during his time with Knecht Implement Equipment Company. In his later years, he retired from running Jake's Small Engine Repair Shop, which became a cherished gathering spot for friends and community members alike.

Educationally, Jake attended the Miami County Country School, where he developed a fondness for learning and connection. His love for music began early in life, taking accordion lessons with Alice Mathis Grandon, and he enjoyed the social aspect of school square dancing.

On May 23, 1959, he married Carolyn, and together they celebrated an admirable 66 years of marriage. Jake is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn Jacobs, and his son, Robert John Jacobs. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Elijah, Liberty, and Trinity, and great-grandchild, Nova. In addition, he leaves behind supportive family members including sister-in-law Connie Derks and brothers-in-law Buddy and wife Lucy, Darold and wife Karen, and Harold and wife Dorothy Hendrickson.

Throughout his life, Jake nurtured a variety of interests and hobbies. As a young man, he relished riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle. He found joy in visiting with friends and family, as well as enjoying the simple pleasure of mowing and clearing snow with his green tractor. Jake also enjoyed engaging his mind through word search books and treasured his time spent with his grandchildren.

Jake was preceded in death by his parents, John and Katherine Jacobs and two sisters, Erma and husband Clifford Witt and Erna and husband Frank Storch, brothers-in-law, Larry Derks and Robert Hendrickson, cousin, Kenneth Tiede, nephew, Ed Derks and father and mother-in-law, Oliver and Golda Fern Hendrickson. His absence will be felt profoundly by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on June 30, 2025, at the First Lutheran Church in Paola, KS, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a memorial service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The church is located at 401 East Piankishaw Street, Paola, KS 66071. A burial will follow the services at Osawatomie Cemetery.

In remembering Jake, we honor a man whose kindness, humor, and warmth impacted the lives of many within his community, leaving behind a legacy of love and friendship.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Lutheran Endowment and/or Lakemary Center c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary-Paola Chapel 305 N. Pearl St. Paola, KS 66071.

To leave a memory of Jake or a special message of condolence for his family, please visit the Guestbook below.