February 27, 1943 – February 21, 2012
Jacob Wolfe, an early pillar of BriarPatch and one of its first Presidents, passed away peacefully on February 21st, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.
Jacob had an extraordinary life. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he came to California in 1971, at 28 years old. Called by the beauty of the Sierra, and sight-unseen, he purchased 40 acres of forest land near Buckeye Diggings in Grass Valley, where he would live for the rest of his life. In 1972, he built his cabins, planted fruit trees, and weathered the hard winters nourished by dreams of a community of self-sustaining joy in the bountiful Sierra. In the late 1970′s, Kitty joined him there and together they had two sons, first Noah and then Reuben.
In 1978, Jacob joined BriarPatch, one of a second wave of young idealists who brought optimism and business skills to the fledgling co-op. He eventually became Board President, and was instrumental in gathering a committed group that brought fiscal health to the Patch at a critical juncture.
When Jacob was diagnosed with cancer in 2002, he turned his gaze inward toward the source of peace, deep connection, and love. His longing for a new life partner was fulfilled in 2004 when he met Kathryn, with whom he laughed, loved, ate great food, and continued to shop at BriarPatch. I can still imagine him now, with that familiar grin and gleam in his eye, as he said, “I’m going to have a good ten more years. You’ll see!” And so we did.
Jacob is survived by his loving partner, Kathryn, his sister, Lillian, his brother, Michael, and his two sons. At Jacob’s request, there will be no memorial service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Nevada County Food Bank or the U.C. Davis Hospice. – Julia Kelliher