Jacob Clarkin

Jacob "Jake" Clarkin, a spirited soul who was born on December 17, 1999, in Wareham, MA died unexpectedly on July 23, 2024.

Jake loved to fish, where he found peace whenever he cast his line and felt the tug of a fish below. Among his favorite pastimes was working on his boat, each repair and restoration a labor of love that mirrored his nurturing spirit.

Jake loved to run the roads and tinker and fine-tune his beloved truck. Nerf gun battles with his sister Jessie brought laughter that filled every corner of their childhood memories.

Jake was a goofball who found humor in the simplest of moments, spreading smiles wherever he roamed. His compassion knew no bounds; he championed the underdog, celebrating individuality and uniqueness in all its forms.

Clad in a leather jacket and sturdy boots, Jake embarked on a journey of self-discovery, his spirit strong through life's twists and turns. A cross-country expedition with his father, David, painted memories that will remain etched in their hearts forever.

He cherished his step-father, Don whom he also called "dad", and his step-mother, Becky who was also "mom", finding comfort in their love and support.

Jake was preceded in death by his grandmother Betty Clarkin and his cousin Olivia, they are all now walking alongside each other on the beach.

He is survived by his mother Gayle (Don) Mason, and his father David (Becky) Herndon. His step-parents were his "mom and dad" as well, he thought of Don and Becky as his parents and they thought of him as their own child. He is also survived by his siblings Jessie Mason, Josh Herndon, Justin Herndon, Ronny Herndon, and Kerry Churchill; and his niece and nephews, although he thought of them as his siblings as well, Abby, Gavin, and Zach Smith; and a host of family and friends from all around the country.

As we mourn the loss of Jake, it is essential to stress the importance of mental health resources and suicide prevention. Let's come together to support one another and raise awareness about these critical issues in our community. Jake's family does not want this to define who he was, but to remember that those like Jake, who work so tirelessly to make others laugh, can be in the most pain. Let's all work harder to make sure others are ok, let's do that for Jake.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Jake's life will be held at the Heidrick-Zaumetzer Funeral Home, 3 College St., Au Sable Forks, on August 3, 2024, at 11:00 am.

Services were entrusted to Heidrick-Zaumetzer Funeral Home, Au Sable Forks.