Jake was born on January 16, 1986 in Anchorage, Alaska. He was a healthy beautiful baby.
Seven days later, Jake was taken to emergency and treated for a hospital born infection. While hospitalized, further complications set in due to the overdose of an antibiotic.
As he fought for his life in intensive care, medical staff said he would not survive. Jake’s spirit refused to leave and he went home 10 days later.
A year and a half later Jake moved to Bellevue, Washington to attend Merrywood Birth to Three program, where he received physical/occupational therapy and easily won the hearts of those who met him.
Jake attended Gordon Hauck Preschool where he thrived in inclusive classes; he won over many with his expressive eyes, bright smile and infectious laugh.
He graduated to Carl Sandburg Elementary where he continued to thrive in inclusive classes and touched the hearts of many, mostly girls.
He attended Kamiakin Jr. High, “sang” in the choir and played King Richard in the school play, not bad for being non-verbal.
Jake then moved onto Juanita High School and Lake Washington Transition Academy. With the support of many wonderful teachers and staff, Jake started his own business.
Jake’s Java served espresso and smiles at the Lake Washington Resource Center for several years. Jake always looked forward to going to work and meeting new people.
Through the years, Jake has enjoyed horseback riding with Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center; he was featured on Sports TV.
He also enjoyed adaptive skiing with Ski for All (now Outdoors for All); his photo appeared in the REI catalog.
Jake was featured in Seattle Parent Map magazine for his participation in aquatic therapy.
In May of 2000 Jake received an ward from the Washington State Trial Lawyers Association for his “Courage in Fighting to Protect Injured Citizens and Consumers in Washington State.”
In recent years Jake took in many movies, enjoyed bowling with friends from “What’s Next” group, occasional visits to the Casino and listening to tunes while cruising in his “Red Ride.”
Until this past year, Jake lived a healthy, happy life, bringing joy and laughter to many. After a recent hospitalization he grew tired and found little comfort in daily activities; he did his very best to hold on.
On Sunday, September 16, 2012 God wrapped his arms around Jake and asked him to come home. He passed peacefully in his sleep.
Jake is survived by his loving mother and sister, Bev Sweet (Mark Keirnes) and Cailin Sweet, Kirkland, WA. Father, Gary Sweet; Aunts & Uncles: Barb Stodola, Bruce Coleman (Nan), Brenda Karker (Jeff), Bonnie Shirley (Randy Lee), Brad Coleman (Andre’), Brian Coleman. Cousins; Aaron & Josh Stodola, Brooke & Charlie Ann Karker, Devon & Tamara Coleman, all from Wisconsin. Dawn Sweet and Greg Sweet.
Greeted in heaven by Grandparents; Norbert & Leona Coleman; Leona Sweet; G.G. and Suzanne Sweet; Petey bird and Ahh! the betta fish.
Care providers, neighbors, friends and all who loved him will miss Jake.
A celebration of Jake’s life will be held at his home, Sunday, September 23, 2012.
He will later be laid to rest in Wisconsin, watched over by his grandparents.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Outdoor of All. http://www.outdoorsforall.org/Donations.html