Jacobus Franciscus Bakker, LTC (ret.) USA

passed away peacefully on December 2nd, 2023 at the age of 92, after a five month fight with pancreatic cancer. His wife and all his children were by his side offering prayers, comfort, and dignity.

Born October 18, 1931 to Wilhelmina and Johannes Bakker in Utrecht, Netherlands, he was fondly called “Co” by his siblings Coenraad (deceased), Wilhelmina (deceased), Johannes (deceased), Willem, and Roelofien. Jacobus is survived by his wife, Irawaty; his children Michael, Frances, Julie, Justin, and Joshua; his stepchildren, Bima and Widya; his 10 grandchildren Kathleen, Kelly, Lia, Troy, Neve, Willa, Calla, Penelope, Isabelle, and Justin Jr; as well as his brother Willem and sister Roelofien.

Jacobus started his career working in the import and export business in Indonesia. He was sponsored by an American family in Indiana to come to the United States. Upon arrival and struggle to find employment, Jacobus decided to join the United States Army. He specialized in finance and accounting to support the US Army and served in this capacity overseas in Germany, Vietnam, Turkey, and Korea. After a 20 year career in the military, rising from a private to the rank of lieutenant colonel, he retired on May 31, 1978.

He was also able to further his education with a BA from the University of Maryland, an MBA from the University of Louisville, and a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Southern California. Jacobus also secured and maintained certifications in support of his career as a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial Planner.

After the military, he served his country through civil service in several different roles

working in the finance field. Jacobus was in the Pentagon when American Airlines flight 77 struck the building during the September 11th attacks. He retired from civil service and continued his career as a contractor working in the finance field where he worked until around the age of 87.

A memorial service will be held at Demaine Funeral Home at 5308 Backlick Road in

Springfield, Virginia on December 10, 2023 from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. At a later date, he will receive a burial at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.

A visitation for Jacobus will be held Sunday, December 10, 2023 from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM at Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22151, followed by a funeral service at 12:30 PM.