Jeffery Scott Hakes

Jeffery Scott Hakes, age 69, of Penfield Township, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on October 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on November 24, 1955, in Massillon, Ohio, Jeff was the beloved son of the late Robert and Virginia (Chaffee) Hakes. On August 8, 1983, he married the love of his life, Kathleen "Kathy" (Woodring) Hakes. Together, they shared 42 wonderful years of marriage.
Jeff was a 1974 graduate of Westlake High School and went on to become a dedicated and skilled carpenter. There was rarely a household problem he couldn't solve-often with a creative fix and a trusty roll of duct tape.
He had a lifelong passion for cars and racing. In his younger years, Jeff participated in local racing events and later organized a beloved neighborhood tradition: the annual lawnmower race. He remained an enthusiastic NASCAR fan and spent many hours restoring his cherished 1979 Z-28 Chevy Camaro.
Jeff also loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing with his grandchildren and family. A lover of animals, he shared a special bond with dogs throughout his life. He enjoyed friendly family poker nights and treasured time spent with loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Kathleen Blout; his stepfather, Richard Lehman; and his stepbrother, Russel Lehman. Jeff is survived by his devoted wife, Kathy; his three children: Julie (John) Walk of Columbus, Jessica (Kevin) Soflkiancs of Olmsted Township, and Joshua (Ashlie) Hakes of Penfield Township. He also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren: Virginia, Xavier, Kayden, Kaleb, Cayden, and Bryce; as well as his sisters, Jana Hakes and Ellen (Al) Douglas.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at Carlson Funeral Home in Brunswick, Ohio, on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. A celebration of Jeff's life will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. with Chaplain Robin Imbrigiotta as celebrant, followed by a procession to Penfield Township Cemetery for interment.
Jeff will be remembered for his kind heart, sense of humor, and unwavering love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.