Jake John Deters
On Sunday, August 19, 2018, the world lost a very special man. Jake John Deters’ life was taken from him, from beyond his control.
Jake had many talents. He held a mechanical engineering degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Jake was an accomplished machinist, something he used for precision gunsmithing.
Jake was an excellent mechanic. He was capable of anything from servicing a combine, to rebuilding a 24-valve diesel engine, and on to overhauling large six cylinder aircraft engines.
Jake’s welding abilities started at a very young age. Using an old AC stick welder, Jake and his brother Isaac built an off road go kart. Combining engineering and the greater welding skills learned from his brother Luke, he was able to bring any mechanical idea into reality. Often, this work involved modifying a farm machine.
Jake was a natural pilot. He was first exposed to flying with his grandpa and dad. Later in life, as his interest grew, his skills were honed and perfected by his brother Isaac’s flight instruction. The two brothers had a blast!
Jake drove semis and dump trucks. The three brothers and dad took a college course together and each received their commercial driver’s license on the same day.
Jake loved fishing and hunting. He knew where to find the big trout and how to catch them. His favorite form of hunting was to call in bucks by himself. If it wasn’t the one he wanted, he didn’t take it. His modesty kept his “fish stories” a bit smaller than they actually were in real life!
Jake was a farmer at heart. He loved working with his brothers and dad. To Jake, the absolute peak of the year would be a sunny October afternoon in the driver’s seat of his white 9700 combine affectionately named “Trouble.” Many acres were harvested under the watchful eye of the big guy.
Jake was a “younger” brother, an “older” brother, a son, and a grandson. But most certainly he grew to be the “biggest” brother.
Jake loved, cared for, helped, and protected his family. First on the list would be his grandma.
Jake John Deters was born September 16, 1984. He went on to a greater life August 19, 2018.
Sadly missed by his loving family, Dad, Isaac and Toni, Luke and Bridgette, and Grandma.
Amy Michaels Engebretson says
Beautifully written – I’m sure very difficult to do, but the essence of Jake is captured in those words so perfectly. One addition to the list of attributes is Jake’s warm and entertaining personality. A bit of grandpa/dad Lloyd resides in each of the Deters men – all generations of them, and Jake was no exception. We’re all sad. Take care of yourselves.
Julie Hundt says
What a wonderful tribute to an awesome and talented young man.
My sincere condolences to his family.