Ed Jacobsen,
91, died in Santa Barbara on September 10, after a life of accomplishment and service.
He was born August 30, 1921 in Missoula, Montana, and grew up in Redlands and graduated from the University in the early years of World War II..
During World War II he was part of the 30th Infantry Division and involved in crucial battles at St. Lo, Mortain and the Bulge. He was later taken prisoner but liberated after 17 days. Returning to Redlands, Ed met and married Dorothy Bohn Shay, who was raising a son Alan and daughter Karen. The family moved to San Bernardino, where Steve and Kristen were later born.
In 1950, he began a career in real estate that lasted more than fifty years and was active in both the local Board and state Association. In recognition of his years of service, he was made an Honorary State President. Ed was also active in the local Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club, serving terms as president in both. He played a key role in the establishment of the Jerry Pettis Veterans Medical Center.
Dorothy died in 1993. In 2007 Ed moved to Plymouth Village. In 2010 his family moved him closer to them in Santa Barbara. He received wonderful care up to the time of his death, which occurred with his children by his side.
Ed was predeceased by Dorothy, Alan, and a grandson Alex. He is survived by his brother Lewis Jacobsen of Riverside, sister Dorothy Redmond of Culver City, children Karen Stancer and Steve Jacobsen of Santa Barbara, Kristen Jacobsen of Santa Cruz, eight grandchildren, and a constantly growing list of great-grandchildren.
An informal gathering to celebrate his life will be held at 2 PM, November 17, at the Arrowhead Country Club in San Bernardino. Memorial gifts may be sent to the University of Redlands Town and Gown Endowment Scholarship Fund in memory of Ed and Dorothy Jacobsen. Mail to The University of Redlands Development Office, PO Box 3080 Redlands, California 92373.