Jacob Paul Nicklawsky

Jake was born on November 10, 1987 in Missoula to Jerri and Paul Nicklawsky. He passed away on May 22, 2017. He grew up in Lolo with his parents and older sister, Kristen, who was one of the most positive role models in Jake’s life.

Jake spent countless hours on the nearby Bitterroot River. He loved to fish, swim, and catch frogs and snakes. At one point, he even turned his mother’s backyard garden into a terrarium, or “habitat” as he called it, for his captured friends. He loved the river so much that he asked to have his birthday party there when he turned nine years old. He continued to appreciate the outdoors throughout his lifetime and enjoyed camping, folfing and picking huckleberries.

Jake was gifted with amazing artistic talent, winning awards for some of his school drawings and paintings which his family cherish dearly and display in their homes with pride. He also loved music and could bust a move like no one else.

A born athlete, he was a standout on the soccer field. Some favorite family memories include learning that he had made the varsity soccer team as a freshman and watching him shoot the winning goal during a championship match. He was ambidextrous and excelled at any sport he tried. Despite impressive precision with his bow and rifle, he preferred target practice over hunting due to his love of animals. He became a remarkable snowboarder during a season working at Big Sky Ski Resort where he spent many blue bird days carving up the mountain.

Spending time in southern Utah, he learned to survive in the desert for weeks on end, and could start a fire with a homemade bow drill. Jake also traveled to Alaska to work at a fishing camp where he caught the catch of his life — an unexpected 150 pound halibut while trolling with a 45 pound test rod on a dinghy pleasure cruise. He was proud to share the meat with his family and the video with YouTube.

Jake had a great smile and loved to laugh. He was quick-witted, hysterically funny, insightful and incredibly patient. His most admirable trait, however, was his authenticity. Jake never judged and wouldn’t stand for others unfairly doing so; he was a champion for the underdog. When he was in grade school, he befriended several special needs children, standing up for them when classmates would make fun of them. He had a magnetic way of attracting people from all walks of life and an ease in making them feel comfortable in his presence.

His greatest love in life was his daughter, Ariana, who he had with his longtime partner Vanessa. He and his daughter laughed together, danced together, created art, gardened and shared the same beautiful blue-green eye color. He did his best to teach her right from wrong and to find learning opportunities for her in all their conversations. He was at his happiest with her and they shared a tremendous bond.

Jake helped others in every way that he knew how. His giving spirit carries on in the body he donated to Life Center, so that others may live.

Jake battled with addiction for many years. In the end, the addiction overtook his life, despite the encouragement of his friends, the love of his family and his repeated efforts to overcome his disease.

In lieu of a public service, Jake’s family has planned a private celebration of his life. In memory and honor of Jake, please show compassion to the people you may come across who are struggling with recovery and trying to do their best in life.