Thomas Otis (Jake) Earp, age 71, of Salt Lake City, Utah died unexpectedly from a heart complication on October 30, 2021. Tom was born on September 4, 1950, in Perry, Iowa to Darrel and Mary (Fried) Earp as he was the youngest of four children. The family later moved to a farm outside Mabel, Minn., where Tom attended and graduated from Mabel-Canton High School in 1969.
In his younger years while still in Minnesota, he enjoyed spending time with friends. He was an avid Twins, and Vikings fan, frequently attending professional baseball games. He enjoyed riding motorcycle and working with his hands, doing construction, concrete and carpentry work.
After high school he took a trip with friends out to Salt Lake City, Utah, where he decided to stay and make it his home. He was a self-employed flooring installer up until his retirement. Tom led a simple life and was a kind-hearted person with a very giving soul, always willing to help. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by many friends and family.
He is survived by siblings Chuck (Gloria) Earp, Marilyn (Earp) Sanness, and Barbara (Earp) Johnson; and many generations of cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Darrel and Mary (Fried) Earp.
A private family graveside burial will be held at a later date.
Stefanie SaintJohn says
I’m so sad to hear of Tom’s passing! I’ve known him for about 28 years. He was the most caring selfless person. Tom and I and my daughters would go to Bees games in Utah, then when I moved to Colorado he came and visited we went to the Rockies games. He will be missed greatly! RIP TOM!
Scott Gibbons says
Tom was a friend and work colleague for the past 25 years. The Carpet Diem and Cost U Less family are sad to hear the unfortunate news. As friends we would like to offer our condolences to the family. If we can participate in honoring Tom we would appreciate the opportunity. Thank you.
Scott@carpetdiem.us
Barbara Johnson says
Thank you for being Tom’s friend, this is his sister, Barbara
We called police and found out about him, We had him cremated and sent back home to Minnesota to be buried by his parents
T Ray Gibbons says
I worked with Tom at Cost ULess for 10 years. He was such a great guy. After his retirement he’d call me daily, and we’d solve the worlds problems and talk about old times. I knew something was wrong when he stopped calling one day and when I called him it said I couldn’t leave messages. I’ll definitely miss him and our friendship. God bless his soul.
Barbara Johnson says
Thank you for your comments, We didn’t find out about our brother for about a week later, he didn’t respond to phone calls, I am Tom’s sister, Barbara Johnson
We had him cremated and he will be buried with his parents in Minnesota