Jacob “Jake” Dale Nienhuis, age 21, passed away surrounded by family and friends at home Saturday morning, November 1, 2025, after a courageous, well-fought 3+ year battle with cancer.
Jake’s thoughtful heart and sharp mind will long be remembered by family and the group of close friends he leaves behind. He enjoyed spending time with his friends online playing games or in-person making late-night runs for food or a good movie. Whether pan and walleye fishing with his dad, or simply taking advantage of being the baby of the family close to his mother, he was always genuinely kind and never complained, even with all the hardships he endured.
One of the highlights of his life was the time spent flying a two-seater fighter jet over Florida, and being invited to be a “pilot for a day” with the Air National Guard based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, alongside F-16 fighter pilots who welcomed him as one of their own, affectionately giving him the call sign of “RANGER.” He remained in close contact with several of the pilots until his passing. He enjoyed retelling the experiences, from the time he pulled four Gs in the fighter jet and nearly blacked out, doing 21 barrel rolls in the same fighter (and only throwing up after the last one), or getting to put on a flight suit and helmet and sit in an actual combat-ready F-16.
Jake is survived by: his parents, Eric and Ann Nienhuis; brother, Cody (Anna) Nienhuis; sister, Taylor (Juan) Nienhuis; grandparents, Kathy Mast and Ron and Kathy Nienhuis; as well as his many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and his group of friends who he highly treasured.
Jake was preceded in death by: his grandfather, Douglas Mast, who he is now reunited with in Heaven.
We love you, Jake. Go and breathe deeply, run swiftly, and enjoy eternity with no more pain, tears or suffering.
Visitation was held Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, from 4-7 p.m., at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72nd Ave., Hart, Mich. 49420. Memorial services will be conducted Friday, Nov. 7, 2025, at 11 a.m., at Grace Adventures, 2100 N. Ridge Rd., Mears, MI 49436.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
www.beaconfh.com
