- Date Of Birth: January 20, 1939
- Date Of Death: February 14, 2012
- State: Idaho
Wes Jaszkowiak, 73, of Boise passed away on Tuesday, February 14, 2012, having been continuously surrounded by family and friends in his final days. His final moments were peaceful, as his daughter sat by his side praying the Rosary with him.
Born in Cottonwood, Idaho, in 1939, one of ten children. He grew up as the oldest, having been preceded by a sister, Nadine, who passed in her youth. Wes moved to Boise as a child in 1948, growing up off of Willow Lane and graduating from Saint Theresa’s.
Wes’ childhood years were spent outside – primarily because his mother would have the boys out from under her feet whenever possible. He and his brother Dave were always together, both receiving the Ad Altare Dei Award, the highest Catholic award, from Explorer Scouts in high school. Wes was one of the first to receive the award in the state of Idaho. Always comfortable in nature, Wes, Dave, and a couple of buddies would spend their spring breaks during high school camping in the hills surrounding Boise.
When in elementary school at Saint Mary’s, Wes played the trumpet in a trio comprised of himself, his brother Dave on clarinet, and his sister Gwen on piano. Later in life he was teaching himself to play guitar and banjo – guess the trumpet wouldn’t allow him to sing or laugh while playing!
Not one to leave his sisters out of the fun, Wes showered them with attention. He would take the time to make them feel very loved…by setting booby traps at the front door set to release when they came home from dates…grilling any potential suitors, making them wish their father had just had a shotgun on the table…and, sharing jokes about the exceptional intellectual gifts of blonde women.
Enlisting in the Marine Corps, Wes proudly served his country as a young man.
Wes had many careers over the years – Marine, salesman, police officer, furniture maker, and home inspector. Wes’ final career spanned 20 years as a highly respected home inspector.
Many people may only know Wes as ‘Clark Kent’. One of his favorite things was tell people he was Superman in disguise. Only to follow with his booming laugh, or as it was described recently, “robust”. Wes was always telling a joke, smiling, laughing, or offering support. Ever the optimist, filled with faith and hope.
Wes was a faithful member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Community.
Wes is survived by his son, Darrin (Shana); daughter, Audrea (Brent); grandchildren, Brigand, Veronica, and Jocelyn; Brothers, Dave (Faye); Rod (Mary); Rick (Connie); Tim (Ina); Sisters, Gwen (Bob); Sr. Phyllis; Jeannine (Gary); and, Nancy (Mike). Wes is preceded in death by his parents, George and Mary, and his sister Nadine.
