Obituary of Jacob "Jake" G. Warkentin

Jake Warkentin passed away peacefully on February 20, 2024 and was ushered into the presence of Jesus and his beloved Mary, who passed away December 1,2022 and whom he had missed every day they were separated.

Jake was born outside Kitchener, Ontario on June 1, 1930 and then moved to Dunnville, Ontario where he grew up on a farm along the Grand River.  At the completion of high school, he immediately began a 22-year career in the banking business, rising to manager within 5 years.  He became instrumental in improving existing branches and opening new ones every 1 to 2 years.  In 1967 he was transferred to Calgary, AB, but when asked to transfer back to Ont. a year later, he left the banking business and began a second career in real estate which spanned 39 years; at the age of 90, he finally gave up his license to look after his ailing wife.  During this time, he fulfilled a dream of owning an auto dealership where, together with his son, Phil, they operated Innisfail Chrysler for 11 years.

Throughout these careers, Jake’s passion was helping people; whether it was the best fit for a home or a vehicle or financial advice; he had a gift for assessing their needs.  He was a people person, thriving on his interactions with employees, colleagues and clients.  He was often in the top salesman category and received many awards.

Jake loved to travel.  While his wife worked for Pacific Western Airlines, they travelled to many parts of the world, including Japan, South Pacific Islands, Hawaii, Australia, Europe, Greece and a final road trip around the U.S.  They also travelled extensively to Ontario to visit extended family.

Jake was always ready and willing to help anyone who needed a hand.  He was especially faithful in helping his children and grandchildren, whom he loved dearly.  He was also passionate about Chrysler cars and enjoyed many trips to car shows in Detroit, L.A. and Calgary.  His love of anything Chrysler started in Windsor during his years as manager at various banks and interacting with the Chrysler Corporation where he picked up many “corporate” cars to drive.

After the passing of his wife, Jake sold their house in Davenport and moved into Collegeside Gardens where he resided until his passing.  He enjoyed meeting many new people and we are thankful for all the wonderful care he received from staff and friends.  He spent his last 2 weeks in Red Deer hospital where, again, he received such excellent care from doctors and nurses.  We are truly grateful for the compassionate care of the many medical professionals who ministered to him.

Jake will be lovingly remembered by his son Philip (Lynda) Warkentin; daughter Cynthia Perkins; six grandchildren: Jennifer (Conrad) Tycholaz, Angela (Ben) Buell, Darryl (Jaelyn) Warkentin, Christina (Shane) Torn, Victoria (Brad) Farewell, and Ian (Juno) Torn; 14 great-grandchildren; brothers George (Joan) and Rudy (Joan) Warkentin of Ontario; and by his many friends and acquaintances. Jake was predeceased by his beloved wife, Mary, his parents and brother John.

A private family service is to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Condolences to Jake’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Warkentin” in the subject line.

Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944