Kenneth Wayne Jacobson

Kenneth Wayne Jacobson, of White Lake MI, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025. He is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy Ann (Metcalf) and by four sons: Robert of Oak Park, MI; Mark of San Diego CA, Ken Jr. of Sylvan Lake, and Jon of Ann Arbor. He was also predeceased by two sons, David and Matthew. Ken was fortunate in having two daughters-in-law, Shelley (Ken’s spouse) and Karen (Jon’s spouse) who were very involved in his life and who provided much care and support in his later years. Ken cherished his grandchildren and always looked forward to their visits: Joel Jacobson (wife Amy) of Denver CO, Alyssa Silvester (husband Nick) of Hoover AL, Hannah Jacobson of Astoria New York, Erica Jacobson of Los Alamos NM, and Marie Jacobson of Detroit MI. He was also fortunate in being able to welcome four great-grandchildren during his lifetime—Owen & Henry (Joel/Amy’s children) and Ethan & Anne (Alyssa and Nick’s children). He is also survived by his sister Carol Gooch (husband Ralph). Ken was also close to his brother Harry Fidler who passed away very recently (wife Sue). He also is survived by numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.

Ken was born in Cleveland, OH in 1926 to Helmi (Fidler) and Wayne Elias Jacobson and he was raised by mother Helmi and by his stepfather Harry Fidler. Ken spent many childhood years in Michigan’s Copper Country in the Upper Peninsula where his family originated. Ken would return to this beautiful region with his family many times over the years. After graduating from Mackenzie High School in 1942, Ken was proud to serve his country in the Navy during WWII in the Pacific campaign, and he remained active in many Veteran’s organizations for the remainder of his life. After working as a HVAC contractor in the 1950’s, he became the founder and proud owner of a very successful business (Oakland Heating Supply) for more than 40 years.

Ken met the love of his life, Dorothy (Metcalf) while serving in the Navy and they were married in 1947. Theirs was a loving and successful partnership that lasted for nearly 78 years. They were devoted to each other and worked together raising their family and building their business. After starting their family in Redford, MI, they built a beautiful home in White Lake, MI where they resided for more than 50 years. Ken & Dorothy also enjoyed their vacation homes in Harrison MI and Fort Myers Beach FL. They recently relocated to the Gilbert Residence, a senior care facility in Ypsilanti MI.

Ken shared many of his interests and hobbies with friends and family. Some of these included outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and golfing. He also made use of his skills as a contractor and enjoyed spending time on home improvement projects.

Ken had very eclectic musical tastes and, like his family, he always enjoyed listening to music. His son Mark and his partner Dave (Bobrow) had the privilege in the last several years of visiting

with him at his home and joining Ken in playing some of his old favorites (especially country/western music) around a campfire, with Dave and Mark on guitar and keyboard while Ken played his favorite harmonica. Ken also had a special fondness for accordion music, and he often asked his son Bob to play his accordion for him at special occasions

Ken had a special way of bonding with each of his children. Ken Jr fondly remembers going to work with him on Saturdays, family night at Tiger Stadium with Centralia friends and being Golf buddies. Ken was an exemplary model of how to cherish and love his wife and family.

Ken was and is a hero to his son Jon, who remembers him as a kind individual, always with a positive attitude, which allowed him to touch so many lives. His devotion to his wife was impressive, especially over the past years where nearly every moment was focused on her well-being. He has taught his sons many life lessons. He will live on in our hearts and memories.

Everyone who came to know Ken over the years, described him as a kind and gentle man who was always optimistic, generous and unfailingly helpful to others. He was a stellar example to his family, demonstrating the value of hard work and importance of treating others with respect. Ken often demonstrated his Finnish heritage (especially sisu: a Finnish term denoting strength and determination) as he overcame challenges and personal losses over the years. But he always emerged from these trials stronger and more caring than ever. In recent years, Ken was a tireless caregiver as Dorothy began experiencing more health problems. He never left her side, and his first and last thoughts always centered on Dorothy’s well-being.

We would like to acknowledge the comprehensive and compassionate care provided by the staff at the Gilbert Residence where Dorothy still resides. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to this assisted living facility in his memory at: https://www.gilbertresidence.com