Jake Martinez Dempsey

Jake was an inquisitive and precocious child who always wanted to know how things worked. He started with Legos as a toddler, became an avid Lego designer in his teens, and continued to create advanced Lego robotics throughout his life. He was intrigued with machines and built his first motorized vehicle from various lawn mower parts at age eleven. The contraption looked unusual but traveled well! He went on to create many different and intricate vehicles. Later, he used his talents as a self-taught welder to fabricate one-of-a-kind creations.

As a teenager, he began working with his father in the swimming pool industry. Beginning with a shovel and wheelbarrow, he earned his way up to Construction Manager where he envisioned, designed, and built many original spas, pools, and water features. His calm yet firm leadership was recognized by his fellow workers, professional colleagues, and clients, who will also remember him for his keen intelligence, intuitive nature, and engineering expertise.

Jake was adventurous and fearless--from scuba to sky diving and everything in between. He was a free spirit with a special style from his green tennis shoes to his wild tee shirts. He was loved by his many friends and took care of them fiercely. He was a devoted son and brother and will be missed dearly by his family and good buddies.

Survivors include his parents Joe and Lori, his brother Joe Jr., his grandparents Geri and Mike Noland and Phil and Tillie Martinez, his great grandfather William Barba and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm Wednesday March 17, 2010 at Unity Church of Boulder on the corner of Valmont and Folsom Street with a reception to follow.

Friends who wish may give to the Wild Animal Sanctuary, 1946 County Road 53, Keensburg, Colorado 80643 or the Humane Society of Boulder Valley, 2323 55th Street Boulder, Colorado 80301.

Arrangements under the direction of Crist Mortuary, Boulder, CO.