Lawrence William Jacob

January 10, 1937 – November 10, 2026

Lawrence William Jacob, affectionately known as “Jake,” passed away peacefully on November 10, 2026, in Austin, Texas, at the age of 89. He leaves behind a legacy of service, faith, dedication, friendship, and, above all, love for his family.

Born on January 10, 1937, in Pratt, Kansas, to William and Maude Jacob, Jake grew up with the values of hard work, commitment, and service that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Pratt High School and later attended St. Edward’s University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting.

Jake proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 20 years. Following basic training and pilot training, he became a fighter pilot and served during the Vietnam War. He was assigned to the 67th Fighter Squadron, where he flew the F-4C Wild Weasels and retired at the rank of Major. Throughout his distinguished military career, Jake received numerous awards and decorations in recognition of his courage, dedication, and service to his country. Among these honors were the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Combat Readiness Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal. His military service was one of his proudest accomplishments, and he carried the honor of serving his country with him throughout his life. His courage, commitment, and dedication to duty will forever be remembered as an important part of his legacy.

Following his military career, Jake continued his professional journey as a Certified Public Accountant and served for 20 years with the U.S. Economic Development Administration before retiring. His dedication, knowledge, and willingness to serve others were evident in both his military and civilian careers.

Jake's life was about much more than his accomplishments. He was a gentleman in every sense of the word—patient, kind, loving, generous, and always willing to lend a helping hand. His Catholic faith was an important part of his life, and he was actively involved in the Knights of Columbus, where he achieved the distinction of Fourth Degree Knight, Grand Knight and a Faithful Navigator. He was also a member of the Great Club within St. Albert the Great Catholic Church and the Colorado River Walkers. Jake enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved reading, walking, working puzzles, volunteering, and traveling, with Durango, Colorado, holding a special place in his heart. He especially treasured his Wednesday morning breakfasts with his buddies, sharing conversation, laughter, and friendship. He was an avid football fan and enjoyed cheering on his beloved Houston Texans.

Jake also gave his time and support to organizations and individuals in his community, including the Austin and Durango Police Departments and several small startup companies. Whether through his military service, professional work, volunteer activities, or friendships, he made a difference in the lives of those around him. Jake will be remembered most for his service to his country, his dedication to the Knights of Columbus, his unwavering faith, and the quiet generosity with which he lived his life. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His presence will be deeply missed, but his example of kindness, humility, and service will live on through the many lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Maude Jacob; his sisters, Collette Steinke, Jean Ann Frazier, and Barbara Wilson; and his son-in-law, William Joseph Monte.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Jacob; his children, Kile Jacob (Kim Jacob), Julie Monte, and Brent Jacob (Una Jacob); his grandchildren, Megan, Caleb, Isaac, Alyssa, Alexander, Marina, Max (Arnae), and Sarah; and his great-grandchildren, River, Ronin, Angel, Annalisa, and Maxwell. He is also survived by his brothers, Jerry Jacob (Arlene) and Phil Jacob (Carol), along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Though our hearts are saddened by his passing, we find comfort in knowing that Jake's faith carried him through life and that he is now at peace in the loving arms of his Heavenly Father.

Visitation will be held at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home, 14501 North Ih-35, Pflugerville, TX 78660, US, on November 23, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, followed by a Prayer Service at the same location on November 23, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will take place at Saint Albert the Great Catholic Church, 12041 Bittern Hollow, Austin, TX 78758, US, on November 24, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm, with a Committal Service to follow at Cook-Walden Capital Parks Cemetery, 14501 North Ih-35, Pflugerville, TX 78660, US, on November 24, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.