“J.T.”

Jim

Jacobs 1944-2025

Jim “J.T.” Jacobs, 80, of Chelsea, died Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025 at his home while under the care of Hope Hospice.

He was born Dec. 3, 1944 in Cleveland, Ohio to Jacob and Helen (McGinley) Jacobs. He grew up in Milwaukee and graduated from Messmer High School in 1963. Jim continued his education at Milwaukee Area Technical College, earning a degree in business administration.

In December 1968, he married his high school sweetheart, Janet. They resided in Milwaukee where Jim worked as an office manager at a trucking company. He and Janet later divorced but remained great friends. Jim then worked for an insurance company which transferred him to the Medford area.

Jim honorably served in the U.S. Army from 1966 – 1969 during Vietnam.

While living in Medford, Jim was working part time as a bartender when he met Melody Dassow. In 1984, the two were married and together had two sons. They resided in Medford and Jim continued bartending while also working as a rural mail carrier. He and Melody eventually purchased their own business “J.T.’s Pub” in Medford, which they owned and operated for many years. Jim and Melody later divorced but also remained good friends.

In life and retirement, Jim enjoyed working as a DJ at many local events and weddings. His passion, however, was spending time musky fishing at his cabin in Three Lakes and Central Wisconsin, while being an active member of the Central Wisconsin Musky Club. He also participated in many local fishing tournaments with his good friends, Art Klimpke and Tim Hovre, and guided other fishermen to the best spots.

He is survived by his two sons, Justin, of Medford, Jared (Oyku), of Chicago, Ill.; his beloved grandson, Jace; his first wife, Janet (Bob) Hayden; second wife, Melody Dassow; special friend, Michelle Pickett; and nephews and niece, John, Jason, and Jennifer; among many extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, John.

Per Jim’s wishes there will be no visitation or funeral service, but a celebration of Jim’s life will be held in the summer.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford is serving the family.

Please visit www.hemerfuneralservice.com to share condolences online.

Paid Obituary 177766