Jacob James Zirkle, 40, died unexpectedly on March 28, 2024, in Yakima. Jacob was born in Fortuna, California, on January 6, 1984, to Jim and Cheri Zirkle. His big sister, Sarah, was waiting for him at home. Jacob was a lively little boy and loved being around people.
Jacob moved with his family to Yakima from Petaluma, California, in December 1993. He made an immediate impact on the Yakima community. He was in the fourth grade and, even at that young age, was quite a baseball player. True to Jacob’s nature, he was a kind and caring teammate. He was an intense athlete and very competitive. He loved to play games especially the card game Shanghai which has many fun, family memories. Jacob had an infectious laugh, a great sense of humor, he made people laugh, was easy going, he made you feel comfortable and was a friend to many. He gave great hugs, loved good food and great snacks and was a procrastinator. Jacob forgave easily and expected to be forgiven as easily. His glass was always half-full and he saw the good things in life even when he began to struggle.
Jacob married Kristen Crossett, on May 22, 2011, and had two daughters, Payton and Charli. Jacob was an accomplished welder and was still figuring out his adult life when he died much too young. Drugs are no one’s friend. He loved his family and will be missed by so many people. Our hearts break that he left this earth so soon.
Jacob is survived by his wife, Kristen, daughters, Payton, 12, and Charli, 11, and stepson, Lucca Sikes. Also, his Dad, Jim (Cindy), Mom, Cheri, sister, Sarah Johnson (Tyler), brother Luke (Brooke), grandma (Marjorie Bastrom) and many aunts, uncles, nephews, cousins and friends.
Please join the family for a celebration of Jacob’s life on Friday, April 26, at 1 pm at Mt. Olive Church, 7809 Tieton Drive in Yakima.
If you are struggling with an addiction, please reach out for help.