Fred R. Jacobs

Fred R Jacobs, age 79 of Fergus Falls, died peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday April 30, 2024.

Fred was born on April 19, 1945 to Martin and Regina Jacobs. He was raised on the family farm just north of Fergus Falls, Minnesota with three brothers and two sisters. Growing up on the farm instilled his ethics of hard work, love of family, and his appreciation of animals, especially HORSES! Fred attended a small country school just north of their home through grade nine then graduating from Fergus Falls High School. There are many stories of the "Jacobs Boys" and their antics growing up that make many wonder how they survived, but oddly it seems those days and experiences just added to their colorful personalities and charm.

Fred was blessed to meet his soulmate and the love of his life Kathy Langness in 1965. They were married May 6, 1967 in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. They were married for 56 years and he cherished her from the moment they met. Fred and Kathy built a loving home with their three children Mark, Mike and Lori in Fergus Falls.

Fred was a "salt of the earth", dependable, simple, humble, and kind man. He dabbled with farming in the 1980's, but spent the majority of his career working for Service Food. He had a strong faith and had several favorite hymns which he sang with enthusiasm, even though he may not have been blessed with the voice of an angel. He enjoyed time with his family and attending sporting events and birthday parties for all his grandchildren. Fred loved to sing and dance. Any time and any place that Elvis Presley was playing, there was no stopping his legs from shaking, which was soon followed by his impersonation of "The King" himself. Simple pleasures like working in his yard, helping people in need, occasional happy hours, and spending countless hours with his horse, particularly driving his carriage in parades, handing out bananas were among his favorites. However, without a doubt, the highlight of every day was spending each one with his wife Kathy. His phrase: well, as long as mom is happy ... never rang hollow. Fred was a loving, strong, faithful, and honest man, a perfect example of what a good person should be. He will be deeply missed by all.

Fred is survived by his wife, Kathy; children, Mark (Kim), Mike, and Lori (Brad) Holthaus; grandchildren, Jack, Parker, Mickenzie, Karsyn, Cooper and Baden; siblings, Jim (Carol) Jacobs, Wayne Jacobs; sisters-in-law, Judy Jacobs and Linda Langness; and many nieces and nephews. Fred was preceded in death by his mother, Regina; father, Martin; mother-in-law, Marion; father-in-law, Lawrence; sisters, Angie and Marlene; brother, Frank, and brother-in-law, Ed.

Visitation: 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 7, 2024 with a 6 p.m. public prayer service at the funeral home and will resume one hour prior to the service at the church.

Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at Grace United Methodist Church, Fergus Falls, MN with Reverend Lee Kantonen officiating.

Burial: Oak Grove Cemetery, Fergus Falls, MN Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com.