Jack "Jake" Edward Gmelin

Fairport , New York, died June 2, 2025 at age 73. He is pre-deceased by his parents Elmer and Gretchen Gmelin, sister Florence Valli, and sister Kay Kretschman Hadlock. He is survived by his daughter Jackie Cassano,of Rochester, son Jack Cruz of Corning ,NY and multiple grandchildren. He is also survived by older sister, D. Claire Gmelin of Pittsford, NY. who sadly writes this obituary. Jake owned and operated his successful collision business in East Rochester for most of his life. He was a hard worker and excellent craftsman, a colorful character and teller of stories, well loved by the locals, charming even strangers with his wonderful sense of humor. He played as hard as he worked and loved his many, fast and one- of-a-kind cars , beautiful women, top notch restaurants, and vacationing in Islamorada, Florida. Suffering complications of advanced diabetes, giving up his beloved shop this year broke his heart . He had defied medical odds and survived multiple hospital admissions over the past several years but Life Support was withdrawn sorrowfully at Rochester General Hospital in the presence of his sister , his daughter and his wonderful PC Physician by phone . His friends and family agree that he “Lived life like someone left the gate open”. A gathering to remember our Jake was held at his home on Sunday June 8, 2025. Donations could be made to the American Diabetes Association.