Jacob J. Sladkey III

Jacob (Jake) J. Sladkey III, 72, of Burton, OH, entered eternal rest on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at UH-Cleveland Medical Center surrounded by family. He was born on July 18, 1953, in Chardon, OH to the late Jacob J. and Thora Belle (Scott) Sladkey II. Jake married his best friend and love of his life, Helen Perry, on May 10, 1975. They celebrated their Golden Anniversary last year.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran who served during Vietnam stationed in Germany. After active duty, Jacob returned home and served in the Ohio Army National Guard. 

Jake loved his motorcycles. He and his darling Helen often took joyrides taking in the beautiful Northeast Ohio scenery and just enjoying each other’s company. In his younger years, he enjoyed riding with his buddies in the Sly Fox Motorcycle Club. 

Being outdoors was a large part of his life. He felt at home in the woods and on his tractor. Gardening was a hobby he relished immensely, never hesitating to help a neighbor till their garden or give them helpful tips. His most prized crop was the pumpkin, which he took to the Great Geauga County Fair winning Grand Champion and largest by weight several times! 

He also loved trapshooting, fishing, and hunting deer, waterfowl, and rabbits with his beloved beagles. Jake loved his current Beagle, Heidi (aka Sugar Pie) who faithfully sat by his side while he watched the History Channel and diligently made sure all snacks were safe for consumption!

He took great pride in teaching his son to shoot, hunt, raise animals, and grow vegetables. Through those shared experiences as well as learning many things about home repair, electrical work, and much more, they formed an incredible bond.

A hard worker himself, Jake, passed on the value of hard work to his beloved grandkids by spending time with them outdoors. He especially loved teaching them how to harvest crops like potatoes and then polishing off numerous popsicles on the porch after hard day’s work on a hot summer day.

Jake will be greatly missed by his loving wife Helen; children, Jacob (Cindy) Sladkey IV; grandchildren, Maryssa Duncan, Drake Duncan, Jacob Sladkey V, Leita Sladkey; sisters, Tori (Jeff) Pierce, Jacqueline (Mark) Pisco, Mary Ann Bianco; sisters-in-law, Sandra McKinnon and Linda McKinnon; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Albert and Larry McKinnon. 

Family and friends will be received from 9:30-11:00 AM, Satruday, January 17th, 2026 at Grace Church of Rootstown, 4808 Tallmadge Rd., Rootstown, OH 44272. A CELEBRATION OF LIFE WILL BEGIN AT 11:00 AM with a luncheon to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Wounded Warrior Project, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or US Department of Veterans Affairs.

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