Murray Jake Kenneth Jacob

Born November 26, 1944. His mother, Jesse Lee Thibodeaux, lovingly raised Jake, his younger sister Pam, and youngest brother, Tony. After serving proudly in the United States Air Force, working in intelligence and satellite communications, “Jake” as he preferred to be called, met his wife to be Barbara in California. They married and he adopted her daughter Mia. Jake tested to become an Air Traffic Controller and scored one of the highest scores ever recorded. He worked as an A.T.C., until medical issues forced his retirement. Around this time he and Barbara gave birth to his son, Murray Jr., and his youngest daughter, Jessica. Jake loved his three children dearly and was a “hands-on” Father and always a good provider. He would do whatever it took to make sure his family had what they needed. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his children. Jake later went on to work for Joshua Memorial Park, Eternal Valley Mortuary, and then later Joshua Memorial Park again. Jake was instrumental in designing the military memorial at Joshua Memorial Park and recognized the need to honor those who died while serving their country. Jake was an accomplished architect and designed several recognizable buildings in the Antelope Valley, including the old Le Club Sportiff building next to the Essex house. In his spare time Jake’s passion was the game of golf. He truly loved the sport and caddied at an early age, honing his skills. He played in numerous tournaments over the years and met so many of his beloved friends while playing. He loved all six of his grandchildren as they were truly the light of his life. They re-energized him and he lit up every time he was around them. He was active in the community and was a member of the Palmdale Sheriff’s station booster club. Words cannot summarize a life so full and so well lived. He touched so many in a truly unique way. His friends and family will truly miss him. Pop, we love you so much, we miss you, we will never forget you, our hearts are broken. Until we meet again. Viewing will be held from 4 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, August 31, 2011, Services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, September 1, 2011, both at Joshua Memorial Park & Mortuary, Lancaster.