Allan "Jake" Jacobs

1939 - 2011

Allan "Jake" Jacobs, 71, died Saturday, June 11, 2011, at his home in the Madison Valley near Three Forks. Jake was born to Jacob and Clara (Kueffler) Jacobs on Oct. 7, 1939, in Stanley, N.D. He graduated from Stanley High School in 1958.

He served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1965, graduating first in his class in the field of engines, powertrains and unit maintenance.

In June 1966, Jake married Olive Marie Hovda, and they had two children, Nyana and Terry.

Jake attended North Dakota State School of Science in Wahpeton, N.D., specializing in diesel mechanics. He accepted a position with Gallatin Equipment in Bozeman. During that time he also taught classes on hydraulics at Montana State University and began his own excavation business, working throughout the Gallatin Valley. After retiring from Gallatin Equipment, Jake continued working in excavation for Huttinga Construction for several years.

Jake enjoyed carpentry, exploring the back roads of Montana, many years of camping adventures, restoring antique stationary engines and designing and inventing different tools and equipment. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and brand new great-grandfather. He always enjoyed spending time with friends. His caring ways and willingness to help others will be missed.

Jake was a member of the American Legion of Three Forks.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Darrell Jacobs.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Olive; daughter, Nyana (Billy) Chase of Billings; son, Terry (Christy) Jacobs of Belgrade; five grandchildren: Dylan Chase, Chelsy Chase, Meaghan Jacobs, Caitlyn Jacobs and Taylor Jacobs; one great-grandchild, Ainsleigh Kinnin; a brother, Mike (Suzette) Jacobs of Grand Forks, N.D.; two sisters, Eileen (Neil) Kelstrom of Turtle Lake, N.D., and Pat Fern of Stanley, N.D.; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services with military honors will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 24, at Jake and Ollie's home, 4470 Buffalo Jump Road, Three Forks.