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JACOBS, Gilbert Francis

Feb 17, 1930 – Aug 1, 2014

It is with sadness but trust in the Risen Lord that we say goodbye to Gilbert Jacobs who died suddenly of a stroke on the morning of August 1. Gil is survived by his wife, Mary Lou; and his children, Mike (Kim), Bernadine, Kate (Jon) and daughter–in–law Shawneen; and his grandchildren, Brandon, Erin, Kevin, Craig and Beckett. Sadly predeceased by his daughter, Mary and his son, Frank. Gil was born in Heisler AB, and grew up in Summerland BC where some of his best friends still live. Gil graduated in 1953 with a BASc in Civil Engineering from the University of British Columbia. He began his career with Alberta Highways before joining Emil Anderson Construction in 1954. Gil left his mark on many major projects around the province including the original Vancouver Island Highway, the original Sea to Sky Highway, the Fraser Canyon and tunnel projects in Oregon, Jordan River and Tumbler Ridge. He was a highly skilled engineer, extraordinary leader and industry pioneer. Gil became President of Emil Anderson Construction in 1976 and led the company for almost 30 years as it diversified into Highway Maintenance, Land Development and Housing. Gil was always a supporter of his church and community with numerous churches, church halls and Westminster Abbey in Mission BC being the beneficiary of his building and fundraising talents. Gil also played a major role in the initial building of the Hope Golf Course and subsequent improvement projects in its 50-year history. He was a two-term alderman for the Town of Hope, Past Chair of the BC and Western Canada Roadbuilders Association, CCA Director and a member of many other construction industry initiatives and committees. Gil loved sports having been a top high school baseball pitcher and was an avid supporter of the Hope Swim Club and many Hope Secondary basketball teams.

He enjoyed golfing, skiing with his family at the Apex Cabin, salmon fishing, and duck hunting with his pals on the frozen prairies. We would like to thank Fraser Hope Lodge and all his caregivers for their excellent care during his 10 month stay. Special thanks to Pinky Ortilla his primary caregiver this last 30 months. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, August 9, at 11 AM, at Our Lady of Good Hope Church, 671 Water Ave, Hope B.C. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations may be made in memory of Gilbert to the Alzheimer Society of BC or to the Fraser Hope Lodge.

Send condolences at www.mbfunerals.com.



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