Jacob Kalamannil Jacob

Our beloved husband, father, papa, and friend, Jacob Kalamannil Jacob passed away on July 20, 2025.

Born on August 30, 1939, in Kerala, India, to Kurian and Thankamma Jacob, he was a man of boundless spirit. After attending the Southern College of Engineering, he courageously immigrated to the United States in 1967 with only $8 in his pocket. He settled in Los Angeles and began his career as an engineer at Western Gear Corporation, notably working on landing gear for space shuttles. In 1970, he returned to India to marry Rachel Fenn, and they returned to the United States to begin their life together. His career path took him on many adventures including a stint working for Xerox exploring Southern California and then turning his natural charm into a successful 40-year career as a salesman for Sears, from which he eventually retired.

Jacob’s nickname, “Joy,” could not have been more fitting. He was never happier than when socializing with his many friends and family. His spirited storytelling and jokes, combined with a contagious laugh, could lift the spirits of anyone around him.

Jacob also had a passionate love for music. Despite having no formal training, he was a gifted musician who could sing and play any song by ear. This talent led him to be part of a Malayalam music group in Los Angeles called the Yogis. Among his other hobbies was a unique side hustle: bringing old electronics back from the brink of despair and selling them on eBay.

He was a man of strong faith and loved his community at Murray Baptist Church, where he was a devoted member for over 40 years.

Jacob is survived by his wife of 55 years, Rachel; his son, James (wife Amita); his daughter, Jamuna (husband Cameron); and his two grandchildren, Tejas and Dev. He will be deeply missed, and his joyful spirit will live on in our hearts forever.

A memorial service will be held in his honor on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Anderson & Goff Mortuary, 11859 South 700 East, Draper, UT 84020.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to Best Friends Animal Society at bestfriends.org/donate.