NEW ULM–John “Jake” Jacobs, age 74, of New Ulm, passed away Saturday, June 14, 2025 at Minneapolis VA, surrounded by his family.

Funeral Service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Minnesota Valley Funeral Home- SOUTH Chapel in New Ulm. Pastor Phil Schenck will lead the service. Visitation will be from 9-11 am on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at the Minnesota Valley Funeral Home- SOUTH Chapel in New Ulm. To leave an online condolence for the family, or to sign the guestbook, please visit: www.mvfh.org.

John “Jake” Jacobs was born on June 1, 1951, in New Ulm, MN, to Charles “Pete” and Elvia Jacobs. He attended St. Paul’s Grade School and graduated from New Ulm Public High School.

After high school, he served our country in Vietnam as a member of the United States Army. Upon returning, he married his high school sweetheart, Sue (Fleck), on December 12, 1970. Together, they welcomed four children, fourteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Jake provided for his growing family by working for thirty-one years at what is now known as Ilpea before retiring.

Growing up in Goosetown, the river was never far from his mind. He could often be found at Minnecon Park, where he loved to fish and find peace.

Jake devoted many years to coaching local youth–twenty on the hockey rink and seventeen on the softball field–sharing not just his skills, but his heart. His dedication to hockey was recognized with the 2021 Tom Macho Lifetime Achievement Award.

He often visited the Vietnam Memorial Traveling Walls, standing as a quiet bridge between the past and those still healing from it. Jake had a way of making others feel seen and understood, often encouraging fellow veterans to seek support and reminding them they didn’t have to carry their burdens alone.

Jake is survived by his wife and constant supporter, Sue; children Brenda (Brian) McNulty of Taylor, TX; Sam (Gwen) Jacobs of New Ulm, MN; Amanda (Bob) Sculley of Salem, SD; and Josh (Molly) Jacobs of New Ulm, MN; sister Judy of Arvada, CO; uncle Elroy of New Ulm, MN; and many nieces and nephews. Papa Jake will also be deeply missed by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, several uncles and aunts, and brothers-in-law Greg, David, and Mark.

Jake was rarely seen without his favorite cap, so in his honor, feel free to keep yours on during the service.

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