Obituary of Don Jacob

A Memorial Service for Don Jacob, age 89, of Milford will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at 11:00am at First Lutheran Church in West Okoboji. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to Upper Des Moines Opportunity at PO Box 519 Graettinger, IA 51342 or visit their website at udmo.com/donate/.

Donald F. Jacob passed away on October 16, 2023, at the age of 89. He was born and raised in northwest Iowa to parents George Jacob and Pearl (Sheley) Jacob.

On April 21, 1954, he married the love of his life, Carole Miller. Don served his country in the US Army for two years and then returned to Milford in 1956, where he and Carole made their home. It was during this time that he joined his father and uncle in working at Jacob Feed Company, a profession that he cherished. His passion for farming and agriculture was evident throughout his life as he dedicated two decades to this family endeavor.

Don's career path took him on various routes, including short-haul truck driving, factory work, and employment at Fareway Grocery Store in Spirit Lake. His friendly and helpful demeanor will be forever remembered, especially during his years in the Family Feed business and at Fareway.

One of Don's deepest passions was his love for animals, especially horses. In addition to this, he owned and boarded his horse on a farm outside of Milford for many years, spending his spare time joyfully horseback riding. Family trips to the lakes in Northern Minnesota and along the Mississippi River in northeast Iowa during the fall were moments of pure bliss for him. His most cherished annual tradition was the Colorado trip, where he would spend time with family and take in professional sports games with his son-in-law Mark and grandson Trevor.

Don's faith was also an integral part of his life. He actively contributed to First Lutheran Church, where he was known for ushering and greeting members and visitors during church services. As Carole's health began to decline, he dutifully assisted her with Altar Guild duties, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his family and community.

Don is survived by his daughter, Kim (Jacob) Woods, and her husband, Mark Woods, of Littleton, Colorado, and his grandson, Trevor Woods, and wife, Amy Woods, of Charleston, South Carolina. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Pearl Jacob, and his beloved wife, Carole Jacob. Don also joins his grandparents, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins who have gone before him.