Jacob Daniel Zook

What is time? Time is currency. Time is a construct. Time is precious. If the only measure of a human's life was time, it would seem short, but when measured in memorable moments and love, Jacob’s was infinite.

Jacob Daniel Zook was born February 25th, 2000, to loving parents, Doris Walker and Bill Zook, joining big brother, Brian. Jacob was a loyal son, loving brother, faithful friend, and devout Catholic.

As Jacob grew up, he grew not only physically into the nickname “Big Jacob,” but in so many aspects was he big. He was big on the Pacific Northwest. Having lived here his whole life, he had particular disdain for anywhere outside of this beautiful area and could not have pictured his life without its beautiful mountains, forests, rivers, lakes and the Puget Sound.

He was big on his family and friends. Without hesitation when his mother got sick, Jacob stepped up and took on the role of provider to alleviate stress on her while she endured cancer treatments. Jacob did so with a smile on his face and a happy heart, knowing the importance of helping his family in their time of need.

He was also big on having a good time. Without hesitation, he signed up for a 10-hour road trip with friends to the last remaining Blockbuster, and yet despite their long journey, the only souvenir he came home with was tiny sunglasses, four Blockbuster beers and no movies. Jacob was a very active and consistent member in his church’s young adults group from its inception. Jacob was not much of a singer unless it was Gregorian Chant or the occasional Katy Perry cover. He was known to often sit back, a drink and a cigarette or cigar in hand, with a smile on his face, his big laugh filling the room. There was never an event Jacob attended that he didn’t bring unmatched charisma. There were so many families that enjoyed his presence at their table, it did not matter whose family dinner he was at, he always felt at home.

“Big Jacob” was big on being kind to others. He was often described as the gentle giant amongst his peers and could always be counted on to lend a listening ear for those in need, though he was a man of few words himself. He had this marvelous way of making everyone in his presence feel like they mattered, what they said was important and ultimately like his best friend. Jacob was the biggest on his Faith. You could always count on seeing this gentle giant in the pew every Sunday, and typically a few days in between. He routinely prayed his rosary and always offered to lead others in prayer. He possessed a profound knowledge of history and was a deep thinker, tremendously affecting the lives of many friends, especially at St Joseph’s Parish. He was the ultimate friend to children and won over many little hearts. He now has their powerful prayers interceding for him.

Jacob entered into eternal rest on Saturday, November 9th. He was preceded in death by his father, Bill, and is survived by his mother, Doris, and brother, Brian. His life was defined by his love for his family, friends and his unshakeable trust in God.

His funeral Mass will be November 23rd at 11:00 a.m. at St Joseph Catholic Church with a rosary preceding the start of the Mass. His burial will be at Calvary Cemetery following the Mass. The family invites all who knew and loved him to join them in honoring his memory.

Although our hearts are heavy with grief, we take comfort in knowing God's infinite mercy and love, we pray for Jacob's eternal rest with the Lord, experiencing the peace and joy promised to all of His children. Jacob Zook - beloved son, brother, and friend to so many. Known by all because of his towering stature, he also had a heart to match. He fostered a strong devotion to Our Blessed Mother through the Rosary, Brown Scapular, the Little Office, and the Angelus. May Our Lady continue to intercede on his behalf for eternity.

The family would like to thank not only friends of Jacob’s but also the St Joseph parish community that has stepped up and rallied behind Doris and Brian during this difficult time. To every person that has prayed, called, texted, gave food, flowers, finances, etc. words cannot describe the gratitude.