On Saturday, September 19, we lost our beloved Jake. He was participating in a charity bicycle race to benefit cancer research -- doing what he loved in the service of others. The pain and shock is devastating. Jake leaves behind an adoring wife, Mary Katharine, a beautiful toddler, Georgia, and another baby on the way. Mary Katharine writes:



"I lost part of my heart and the father of my sweet babies. I don't have to tell most of you how wonderful he was. It was self-evident. His life was his testimony, and it was powerful and tender and fierce, with an ever-present twinkle in the eye. I will miss him forever, even more than I can know right now...There was no thought too optimistic for Jake, so take it and run with it. I will strive and pray not to feel I was cheated of many years with him, but cherish the gift of the years I had. In a life where nothing is guaranteed, Jake made the absolute, ever-lovin' most of his time with all of us. [The photo on this post] is a family picture we took a couple weeks ago. It was taken because Jake, as always, was ready with a camera and his immense talent. All four members of our little, growing family are in it. I can never be without him because these babies are half him."



Those of us who love Jake want to help ensure that Mary Katharine and the family have everything they need -- now and (especially) in the future. Please contribute to help provide for their childrens' education as they grow up. These funds may also be used to advance ideas about which Jake was passionate. Finally, Mary Katharine has asked that people consider donating to a cause very close to their hearts: The Travis Manion Foundation, which supports families of fallen US servicemen, at www.TravisManion.org.



God bless you.

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