Richard A. "Jake" Jacobs

Richard Allan "Jake" Jacobs, 74, of Springfield, Vermont, passed away on March 8, 2026. He was born January 2, 1952, in Midland, Michigan.

Jake graduated from South Burlington High School in 1970 and served in the United States Army, receiving an honorable discharge in 1978.

A successful businessman and landlord, Jake owned and operated Jake's South Street Market in Springfield for more than 45 years. Under his leadership the market grew from a small convenience store into a popular community destination offering deli items, meats, and take-out meals. Known for his street-smart business sense and personable nature, Jake built lasting relationships with customers, tenants, and neighbors alike. He took great pride in running a tight ship while supporting the interests of the community he called home.

Jake had a lifelong passion for the outdoors. An avid rifle and bow hunter, he traveled widely pursuing both sport and cultural experiences. Along the way he formed many lasting friendships, enjoying opportunities to meet new people and learn about their traditions, lifestyles, and food. He especially cherished his land and hunting camp in Williamstown, Vermont, where he spent countless hours improving the forest and wildlife habitat.

Jake also enjoyed home gardening and had a deep affection for the many dogs and cats that shared his life over the years.

A dedicated member of the community, Jake was actively involved with the Springfield Moose Lodge 679, where he served in numerous leadership roles including President. His commitment to the organization and the community was widely recognized. As one fellow member noted, "To know Jake was to know the very definition of dedication. For the Springfield Lodge, Jake was the engine behind it." Jake achieved Moose International's prestigious Pilgrim Degree, the highest honor bestowed by the organization.

Jake was also a life member of the Springfield Elks, the Springfield VFW, the Chester American Legion, the South Burlington Eagles, and the St Johns Lodge FAM, Springfield.

He was predeceased by his mother, Wilma Benson Jacobs Martin, and his brother, Michael Jacobs.

He is survived by his stepfather, Roy Martin of South Burlington, Vermont; his brother, David Jacobs of Venice, Florida; his sister Suzanne Martin Couillard and her husband David of North Hero, Vermont; his sister Kathy Martin of Georgia, Vermont; and his life partner, Janet Makela of Springfield, Vermont. Jake also leaves behind ten nieces and nephews and shared a particularly close bond with his nephew, Michael Jacobs Jr.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Springfield, Vt Moose Lodge on Saturday May 16, 2026, at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jake's memory may be made to Moose International's Mooseheart Charity. Donations may be mailed to:

Richard A Jacobs Memorial Mooseheart Fund Springfield Moose Lodge #679

39 South St

Springfield, VT 05156