SCARBOROUGH—Gary Christian "Jake" Jacobsen, 65, of Scarborough, died peacefully in the comfort of his own home on Friday, October 14, 2016. Jake was born in Portland on May 4, 1951, a son of Kenneth and Cathleen "Joy" (Christensen) Jacobsen. He grew up in Westbrook where he graduated from Westbrook High School and went on to attend Southern Maine Vocational/Technical Institute where he studied culinary arts. Prior to his injury he was employed by Saga Food Corporation and worked at the Westbrook College Dining Hall. Jake was athletic and enjoyed skiing, held a black belt in karate, and cherished time spent at the family's summer home on Little Sebago Lake. At age 22, Jake suffered a life-altering diving accident, causing him to be paralyzed. Despite his physical limitations, Jake was extremely independent, inspiring all of his family and friends. He was a history buff and enjoyed his annual road trip to Washington D.C., many times accompanied by his brother-in-law, Al. Jake volunteered for many years at Scarborough High School where he worked with teens and ultimately received a Jefferson Award from WCSH 6 for his community involvement. He was also an exceptional pool player. Jake will be remembered by his close knit family and friends as a generous and thoughtful spirit who befriended all he knew. He is survived by a brother-in-law, Alen Metivier of Steep Falls; nieces, Kellie Ramsdell and her husband Heath of Limington, and Kaitlin Nash and her husband James of Limington; great nieces and nephews, Dawson, Mackenzie, and Madelyn Ramsdell and Harper and Reagan Nash and special friends and neighbors, Larry and Joyce Jensen. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Deborah Metivier and best friend and cousin, Dana Christensen. A celebration of Jake's life will be held on Friday October 21, 2016 from 6pm to 8pm at Italian Heritage Center, 40 Westland Ave., Portland, ME 04102. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jake may be made to a charity of your choosing. Arrangements are in the care of the Dolby Funeral Chapel, 434 River Rd., Windham, ME 04062.