John T. Jacobs

John was born in Newton, KS on February 10, 1941 to the late Dr Mahlon & Maude Jacobs.

He graduated from Peabody High School and later attended Baker University, where he was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. John married his college sweetheart, Nancy Keirns, on August 10, 1963.

John is survived by daughter, Nicki & husband, Bob Trester; daughter, Michele & her husband, Frank Yager; grandchildren, Cannon, Peyton & Callum Trester and Benedict & Kathryn Yager; sister, Marjorie Jacobs Nelson; sister in law, Kay Keirns Best; 7 nieces and nephews & great-nieces & great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by brother in laws, Lee Nelson & Don Best.

John spent the majority of his career as a Product Manager with Hallmark Cards. In the late 1990’s he took a new job with Abbey Press in St Meinrad, IN.

John met his future wife his junior year at Baker University. They would have celebrated 58 years together this month. They had an enduring love & were often each other's constant companions. To know that they are now reunited in heaven for eternity brings his family much comfort.

John was a great father to his 2 daughters & even better Grandpa to his 5 grandchildren. He will be remembered as someone who loved his family dearly & was supportive to all those that he loved. He had many friendships that he cherished as well, some go back to his childhood in Peabody, to his college days at Baker University, to his postgraduate studies at Indiana University, and his many friends that were neighbors & co-workers.

If you knew John well you knew that he was a great sportsman!! He excelled at football & track at Peabody HS & later at Baker University. John was an outstanding football player for the Wildcats in the late 50’s, early 60’s. He averaged 100 yards rushing per game in his senior season & even broke Baker’s single-game rushing record against Sterling where he rushed for 220 yards. He also ran on a successful track relay team for Baker. John was a humble storyteller when he would talk about his days at PHS or BU because even though he loved playing the game he loved who he was playing with even more!!

John was a longtime Northland resident who enjoyed taking meticulous care of his yard & backyard garden. He spent most weekends mowing his yard in perfect parallel lines, getting rid of weeds or transplanting the many plants he started in his basement greenhouse.

John was a proud member of Gashland Presbyterian Church. He was grateful he could raise his family surrounded by so many great friends. He also enjoyed serving on different committees throughout his years at GPC.

John spent his final years after Nancy’s passing at Wexford Place in the Northland. His family would like to thank all those who worked with him & took such good care of him.

The family understands that during this time people may choose not to be in a large gathering or to travel, because of that John’s funeral service will be livestreamed. To access the funeral services, please visit: https://vimeo.com/event/1196400

In lieu of flowers the family suggests making a memorial contribution in John’s name to your favorite charity.