OBITUARY: Jacob Kodanko

 Jacob W. Kodanko, 94, of Sister Bay, died with family by his side Dec. 12, 2018.

Jacob was born Aug. 8, 1924, to Jacob and Anna Kodanko. Jacob sailed the world as a Merchant Marine for 14 years reaching the rank of Captain prior to his honorable discharge.  Upon returning home from service, he purchased an existing business and homestead in Sister Bay and Kodanko Excavating was born.  In 1954, he married Annabelle Lundquist (who preceded him in death in 1969), and had two children, David and Bonnie.

On Sept. 10, 1978, Jacob married Violet N. Anderson of Baileys Harbor.  Jake and Violet, along with Violet’s daughter, Melanie, welcomed John Jacob Kodanko born on Nov. 3, 1979.

Jacob will be forever remembered for his hearty laugh, endless stories of his travels, kind heart, and generosity.  He enjoyed working on small engines in his garage until the age of 93, when his declining health forced him to officially retire.  The garage would always be full of friends stopping in to visit and the phone was always ringing.

To Jacob’s children, he will be remembered as a wonderful father who lead his family with strength, love and support.  We are forever grateful for the family that we have all become around a man that was a great example to us all.

Jacob is survived by his son, David of Boise, ID; daughters, Bonnie (Toby) Weckler and Melanie (Craig) Hoffmann-Hass; grandchildren, Jeremy, Stacey, Tim, Cody, Kelsey, Lauren and Jacob; and great-grandchildren Willy, Angel, Lindsay and Matthew.

Jacob was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Robert, Raymond, and Edward; wife, Annabelle; son, John Jacob; and wife, Violet Kodanko.

The family has chosen to have a memorial service in the spring of 2019, followed by a celebration of the wonderful life Jacob created.  An updated obituary will be published when service details have been finalized and welcome everyone to join us with your remembrances of a man that has touched so many in our community and around the world.

Casperson Funeral Home in Sister Bay is assisting the family.  Expressions of sympathy, memories and photos of Jacob may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.caspersonfuneralhome.com.