Honoring the Memory
of Those
We Love

Age 88, formerly of Baldwin Boro, passed away on Thursday, July 29, 2021, in Philadelphia.

He is predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Rosemary, who was the love of his life; mother, Viola Rousseau; and grandparents, Lucy and Clark Wilson. He is survived by his daughter, Beth (Bruce) Rofsky and son, Joe (Georgann Cindrich) Howard. Also survived by his three granddaughters, Sarah Howard, Hannah Howard, and Samantha Rofsky, who were his greatest joy.

Jake was born in Mt. Washington and raised in Brookline by his mother, Viola and grandparents, Lucy and Clark Wilson.

His second home was Moore Field in Brookline where he played numerous sports and made lifelong friends. Then at South Hills High School, he “majored” in band, orchestra, and baseball, while making more great friends. He also played baseball for the local American Legion team that went to the national playoffs in 1951. He was a dedicated fan of the Penguins, Pirates, and Steelers.

His greatest achievement was convincing Rosemary Louda to marry him. He met her at West Penn Power where they both worked, and they married in 1953. He loved her dearly and greatly missed her after her death in 2020.

After coming home from Boot Camp, Jake and Rosemary moved to Colorado Springs, CO, where he was stationed for the Army. Jake was a drummer in the Kilt and other Army Bands. He also played tympani for the Colorado Springs Symphony with the blessing of the Army.

While successful in his day job as a senior executive at various security guard companies, his passion was drumming for numerous jazz combos every weekend for 50 years. He had the pleasure of playing with many of the great musicians in the Pittsburgh area.

After retiring, he and Rosemary traveled extensively. Most importantly to them, they frequently visited their children and grandchildren in the Philadelphia area.

Jake and Rosemary lived in same house on Green Glen Drive in Baldwin Borough for 49 years before moving to Philadelphia area in 2019 to be close to their children and grandchildren.

Jake lived for his family, especially Rosemary, music, and telling stories; and in recent years was a devotee of tv westerns. His love of family and friends, joy of life, and lively spirit will be missed by all who knew him.

All family and friends are welcome to attend a visitation at John F. Slater Funeral Home, 4201 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15227, on Wednesday, August 4 at 9:00, followed by a memorial service at 11:00. Internment at Jefferson Memorial Park. Luncheon will immediately follow internment at The Whitehall House.