Sorry so late, just found this out... R.I.P Jake
Olfert J. “Jake” Wiersma, 83, of Bushkill Twp., passed away Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Lehigh Valley – Pocono Hospice House in East Stroudsburg, PA.
Born February 18, 1940, he was a son of the late Olfert and Ida (Lilly) Wiersma. He was the loving husband of Alice (Marsh) Wiersma with whom he celebrated 59 years of marriage prior to his passing.
Jake graduated from Nazareth Area High School and was a proud veteran, having served in US Army during the Vietnam War era. He was employed as a mechanic by R & R Provision Co. of Easton, before retirement.
Jake was a collector of antique Massey-Harris tractors. As a mechanic he took great pride and pleasure in doing his own tractor restorations. A rather quiet and serious man, he loved the mountains and being outdoors hunting and fishing. Along with his family, Jake frequented his cabin in Tioga County where he was able to enjoy many of his hobbies. Earlier in life, he participated in dirt-modified car racing in Nazareth. Along with his friend Bill Tanzosh, his racing team won 2 championships in 1979 and 1980.
In addition to his wife Alice, Jake will be missed by sons, Billy of Wind Gap and Dennis and his wife Donna of Pocono Lake; daughter in-law Judy Wiersma of Nazareth, brother Teddy Wiersma of Florida; grandchildren, Chad, Jennifer, Amanda, Sarah, Josh, James, Andrew and Ashley; great-grandchildren, Adeline, Addison, Laynee, Lucca, Logan, Lucas and Alexander. He was predeceased by a son, Donnie sister, Bobbie Cooper and brother David Wiersma.
Relatives and friends are invited to call, Wednesday, August 16 from 10-11 am at the Schmidt Funeral Home, 202 West St., Wind Gap. A Memorial Service will follow, in the funeral home, at 11. Private burial will be at the convenience of the family.