John “Jake” Richard Valiquette, age 80, of Escanaba passed away peacefully at home Thursday evening, October 10, 2024.
He was born May 2, 1944 to John and Cecilia (Cota) Valiquette in Escanaba. Jake enlisted in the US Army in 1961 and was Honorably Discharged in 1964. He was a member of Boilermakers Local#169 for 31 years, retiring in 1999. Jake married Susan Taylor on April 19, 1969 in West Hartford, Connecticut and they raised two children together. In 1979 he restored a 1936 Ford truck as rehabilitation after a serious accident. Jake built his own log cabin in Stonington in the early 90’s from logs he cut from his land. A beautiful property where his son currently resides.
Jake loved hunting, fishing, family time and dirt track racing earning him a track championship in 1977. He bought a vintage modified car in his 70’s and raced again for several years. He was also a member of St. Anne Catholic Church for decades.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Matthew (Teri) and Laura and her son, Logan and three other grandchildren; his sister, Verna Jaeger; brothers, Darrell (Pat) and Keith and sisters-in-law.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Ronald, Marvin, Dwain, Harland, Jim, Kerry “Joe” and Dick and his sister, Mary Ellen.
The family would like to thank the VA, Mike Rondeau and the nurses at Fresenius Kidney Care.
Per Jake’s wishes, no services will be held
In his memory please make a donation to the charity of your choice.
The man, the myth, the legend will be greatly missed by his loved ones.