James "Jake" Jacob

James “Jake” C. Jacob, age 76 of Wisconsin Rapids passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at his home.

A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids.

James was born in Wisconsin Rapids on February 17, 1947, to Carl and Mary (Foley) Jacob. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1965. James worked as a Laboratory Technician at Consolidated Papers Inc. in Wisconsin Rapids for 44 years before retiring. James married Judith Tomashek in Las Vegas, NV on April 10, 2003.
Jake was a devoted coach for the St. Luke’s basketball team, a role he cherished as much as he did watching his beloved Packers and Badger football and basketball games. He was known for his love for Christmas, a time he cherished for the joy it brought to his family. Jake was someone you could trust, not just with fishing tips and basketball strategies, but with your stories, and your friendship.

Jake, an avid fisherman, was not just known for his love of walleye fishing but also for his talent as a fishing guide in the Minocqua area. He took great pleasure in creating his fishing baits, a testament to his creativity and his deep connection with nature.

James is survived by his wife Judy, daughter: Lori (Phil) Grimsley; granddaughters: Mackensie (Bryse) Bugger, and Katelynn Grimsley; great-granddaughters: Harper Lee and Addelyn Grace; siblings: Dauine (Connie) Jacob and Raymond (Carol) Jacob; stepchildren: Paul (Pam) Nitzke, Lori (Bill) Clark, Michael (Roberta) Nitzke, John (Lynn) Nitzke and Scott Jalaine) Nitzke and 13 step-grandchildren and 14 step-great-great grandchildren; and his favorite fishing partner Scott.
He is preceded in death by his parents Carl and Mary Jacob.