The call to leave this world and enter into eternity with Christ came peacefully to Jacob on Friday, June 19. 2009. He reached the age of 93 years and 6 days. Jacob was born to Henry and Maria Stoesz in Reinland, Manitoba and was the eldest of nine children. He was predeceased by two sons - Jake in infancy in 1952 and Edward in an automobile accident in 1976. He was also predeceased by his parents, three brothers, (Peter in infancy, Henry and Cornelius); two sisters (Betty and Mary). Jacob is survived by his loving wife, Tina; children, Corny (Joyce) Stoesz, Bill (Vera) Stoesz, Hilda (John) Klassen, and Johanna (Wes) Peters, 10 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren and three sisters, Sara, Annie and Tina. Mom and Dad were married at Mom’s parent’s home in Silberfeld on July 11, 1940. They would have been married 69 years in July. Jacob was a mechanic most of his life. In 1948, Jacob and Tina moved their young family to Colony Bergthal, Paraguay for five years, where he worked at a Blacksmith and Welding shop. After returning from Paraguay, he worked for Landmark Motors until 1981 when he retired. After retirement, Jacob kept himself busy by operating a lawn & garden repair shop from their home in Mitchell, Manitoba. During these retirement years, Mom and dad enjoyed many years of traveling and visiting with family in BC, Ontario, and the USA. One of the highlights in his life was in 1987 when they went to Paraguay to visit some of his family members. In 2002 Jacob suffered a stroke, which led to the decision to move from their Mitchell home to an apartment in Steinbach. It was also at this time that the 5th wheel travel trailer and truck were traded in for a scooter. This allowed him some mobility and he was able to be somewhat independent to meet his friends at the mall to reminisce and drink coffee which he enjoyed very much. In 2004 and 2008 Jacob survived episodes of Congestive Heart Failure. In the last few weeks, even when he seemed very ill, he never complained – but often said; (with a smile on his face) – I feel good! Jacob died peacefully at home with family at his side. The family would like to thank the Home Care staff, Home Care nurses, and Debbie Krahn (Palliative Care Nurse) for all the wonderful care he received - God bless you! Viewing will be held Tuesday, June 23 at 7:00 p.m. with a devotional at 7:30 p.m. and at the church prior to the service. The funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 24 at 2:00 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel with interment at Heritage Cemetery, Steinbach.