DENVER, COLORADO: In a devastating turn of events, a Colorado father with an unwavering zest for life met a tragic end when his parachute malfunctioned during a skydiving event in Texas.
Jacob Todd, affectionately known as Jake, was on the cusp of achieving his 100th dive of the year when his life was cut short on Thursday, October 15.
Jake Todd's death a heartbreaking loss for loved ones
Jake Todd's unexpected death has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of his loved ones. He is survived by his parents, three siblings, and his cherished 9-year-old daughter, Jeune, who was undoubtedly the apple of his eye.
“The guy was not only my son, but my best friend,” Todd's father Dave Todd told Fox 31.
Jake had a profound passion for skydiving, a pursuit that brought him immense joy.
His father, Dave Todd, shared, “He knew that I didn’t necessarily like it because I was afraid of the risk, but I also understood what pleasure it brought to his life."
The bond between Jake and his daughter, Jeune, was nothing short of extraordinary. Described as a duo that could light up any room, they shared an unbreakable connection.
Jake's brother Bryan Todd said, “He and his daughter were just really something special together."
“I think one of the things that Jake taught me is compassion,” Bryan added. “Jake was the type of guy that would give you the shirt off of his back, who’d give you the last of something he had if it’s what you needed.”
Jake Todd embraced the Colorado spirit
Dave Todd, in his grief, emphasized that his son was a dependable figure in the lives of those who knew him - whether it was time, financial support, a listening ear, or valuable advice.
“Jake completely embraced the Colorado spirit, and I’m going to miss him, but I’m really proud of him,” Dave said.
“I fully intend to make sure through his daughter and the rest of my children we’re going to keep that legacy alive,” Todd's father said.
To assist with expenses and provide support for Jeune, a GoFundMe campaign was established. It highlighted Jake's passion for pushing the limits in his hobbies, which included not just skydiving but also car racing.
Jake's zest for life was evident in every facet of his existence, and he encouraged those around him, including his daughter, to share in his adventures.
“If you knew Jake, you knew Jeune was always attached at his hip,” the fundraiser read.
Jake Todd's funeral services were held at the Parker Funeral Home, a somber occasion to honor a life that ended too soon.
He is survived by his daughter, parents, two brothers, one sister, grandparents, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
