Our beloved brother went to find a new favorite fishing hole in the sky, on February 2, 2026, at age 75. In September he went on his yearly trip with his buddies to terrorize the fish in Canada. Upon his return he sadly learned he had lung cancer. He had many treatments of radiation and chemo, but the cancer moved on to his brain, and the doctors said they could not save him. After moving to the comfort of his sister Mary’s home, he was given a few months to live, but only lasted 16 days, even with the constant care of his 2 loving sisters and hospice.

During those short 16 days, many friends visited him, bringing him foods, soups, pizzas and goodies that he liked. Jim Ratych apparently thought we were starving him and filled our cupboards with food. We never knew he had so many friends! We enjoyed hearing many funny, interesting stories, and Jake enjoyed seeing and talking to them. I could never name them all for fear I would leave someone out. You were all special to him and you all know who you are. We love you for what you did for him and are grateful for your friendship. He was a lucky man to have such wonderful friends.

Jake had a special 20 year loving relationship with Des. Even though they were no longer together as a couple, they continued to be there for each other when needed. Des was a huge help to our family during Jake’s illness and we can’t thank her enough. When she came to visit him the day he was fading in and out, she got close to his face and told him she was there. He opened his eyes and made the most beautiful smile when he saw her. We’ll cherish that memory of him forever. Des and Henry lived close to Jake and helped him so much.

Jake worked at Zuk’s Gulf Station for over 35 years and loved the Zuk Family. He enjoyed hunting deer on their farm; the Zuk family hosted his wedding there; and he was best buds with Jeff Zuk, his boss and friend. Jake, Jeff, and Ronnie Stewart would shoot the breeze almost daily at the station, solving the world’s problems. Jake and Rich Kalkstein also renewed their childhood friendship and Rich came to sit at Jake’s bedside with Jeff and Ronnie the day before we lost him. Jake also spent a good amount of time playing pool at the Falcon’s Club and the Citizen’s Club in Glendale, and eating dinner and drinking Coors Light at Rocky’s, which was across the street from Zuk’s station. Good times with good friends.

Jake was the beloved son of the late Karl and Mary Kuberek; brother of Mary Beerman (late Jack), Sue, Keith (Joyce), and the late Skip, Karl, and Dale Kuberek; and very special uncle of Mandy and her husband, Mark Yakubisin. His daughter Morgen, her husband Andy, and their daughter Lauren Wade brought him the most joy in his life. He was so proud of his beautiful Morgen, and still on best terms with her mother, Kim Sweat (Gary) and the Whitmer family. They are all wonderful people and he loved them. He also leaves behind his cat, Max, who is now living with Jake’s friend, Sandy, and we are so grateful to her.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the SZAFRANSKI-EBERLEIN FUNERAL HOME, INC.

There will be no visitation for Jake, as was his wish. But he did talk about having a “Wake for Jake.” He wanted it done while he could attend, but that didn’t work out. But we will have that Wake, for friends and family on February 21, 2026 from 5 to 8 PM, at the Falcon’s Club, 228 Ignatius Ave., Carnegie, PA. Everyone who knew Jake knows of his loyalty, honesty and friendship. In his last days, Jake’s final request was to be surrounded by friends and family. It was the only thing that mattered to him. We are grateful for the outpouring of love that made that wish a reality.

Burial will take place in Robinson Run Cemetery and with some of his cremains being spread at Mt. Rushmore.

www.szafranski-eberleinfuneralhome.com (412)276-1107