Mabel Jacob

Mabel Jacob, 97, of Aberdeen, SD, passed away Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at Bethesda Home of Aberdeen.

A Funeral Service and Internment will be held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, October 26, at Sunset Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.

Schriver’s Memorial Mortuary and Crematory, 414 5th Avenue NW, Aberdeen, is in charge of arrangements.  Family and friends may sign the online guestbook and view the service at www.schriversmemorial.com.

Mabel Burrer was born on September 4, 1926, 18 miles east of Eureka, SD, to Jacob and Leah (Preszler) Burrer. She went to school and grew up on the family homestead, learning family values and work ethic. She earned a Doctorate from the University of Life. After losing her father at a young age, she helped her mother and five siblings on the farm before moving to Aberdeen to pursue her dreams.

Mabel met the love of her life, Bernard Jacob of Aberdeen, SD, at the Doodle Bug in Aberdeen. They were united in marriage at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on October 7, 1948.  Three children were born into this union: Peggy, Patricia, and Paul. Mabel and Bernard were married 71 years prior to his passing on December 29, 2019.

Mabel pursued employment in the fashion industry.  Her true passion was found in the shoe department. She was well-known on Main Street for her customer service, as well as being the “Go-To” lady for style advice.  Throughout her career, Mabel was employed at J.C. Penney’s, Bostwick’s, Herberger’s and retired from Feinstein’s.

As the CEO of the family, she had top-notch qualities, incredible drive, attention to detail, and enthusiasm. She set the bar high. She was finicky about her home being immaculate and well-maintained at all times, therefore earning the nickname “Fuss.” Mabel’s zest for life was inspiring. She was an example for her children and others to follow. Her joy was beyond measure when she met her newborn great-grandson on Mother’s Day, 2023.

She volunteered her time at the Elks and Moose Lodge. She was also a lifetime member of the Ladies’ VFW Auxiliary, where she held various positions. She took immense pride in orchestrating fashion shows and luncheons for the community to attend. Furthermore, she taught children at local schools how to properly fold the American Flag and the importance of remembering our Veterans.

During the holidays, she made everyone feel special.  It was always fun for the family to come home and celebrate.  Her cooking skills were unmatched, and her chili and caramel rolls were incredible. She could often be found in the TV room watching the Minnesota Timberwolves, Minnesota Twins, Dancing with the Stars, or just surfing through the channels. She was a talented musician and had a passion for playing the piano and organ. She also enjoyed playing cards, dancing and traveling with her husband.

Undoubtedly, Mabel was a strong and devoted woman to her faith, family and friends. She was the prayer warrior of the family and kept everyone focused. She had a heart of gold, and it was shared with everyone, especially her Lord and Savior. Mabel will always be remembered as a woman of grace, class and dignity.

Grateful for having shared Mabel’s life are her children: Peggy (Bill) Trankle of Rapid City, SD, Patricia (Kyle) Hesby of West Fargo, ND, Commander Paul B. “Jake” Jacob, USN, Ret. of Aberdeen; grandchildren: Derek Jacob Hesby (Emilie Espelund) and Alexander William Hesby (fiancée MaKayla Edwards) of Fargo, ND, Dallas Gregory Jacob of Houston, TX; great-grandson Hudson Hesby; and her sister Virginia Rohrbach of Lodi, CA.

Greeting her in Heaven are her parents, Jacob and Leah; her husband, Bernard; her brothers Del, Elmer and Harry; and her sister, Velma.

The family would like to thank Dr. Myrmoe, Dr. Leichter, the Emergency Room providers and staff for outstanding healthcare at Avera. The family would also like to recognize the angels working at Bethesda. You all are phenomenal everyday warriors providing compassionate care. Our mom was so thankful for all of you!

Pallbearers will be:  Commander Paul B. “Jake” Jacob, USN, Ret., Colonel Jay DesCamps, USA, Ret., Delbert Dutenhoffer and Jeff DesCamps.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Mabel’s grandsons and great-grandson Derek Jacob Hesby, Alexander William Hesby, Dallas Gregory Jacob and Hudson Hesby.

We have lost our “Fashionista,” but she will remain in our hearts forever. We love you, Mom! We are so proud of you and happy that you are reunited with Dad!

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.