Jacob Pieter Roest

Jake Roest passed away on April 12, 2026 at the age of 86. He was named Jacobus Pieter, born on December 21, 1939 to Cornelius and Gertrude Roest in Zoeterwoude, The Netherlands. He was the second of 6 sons and was raised on a dairy farm.

Jake and his family immigrated to San Diego, California in 1956 with hopes of finding farmland so that each boy might have the opportunity to continue farming. As a young man he worked for other farmers and became a citizen of the US in 1962, after which he was drafted into the military. Jake did a tour of duty in Germany as an Army Postal Clerk, After his service he returned to work in the dairy industry. He met Gracelda (Cel) and they married in 1969.

A daughter, Kristy, was born in 1972. Shortly after the family of three moved to Battle Ground, WA to start their own dairy farm. In 1978 they traveled to Korea to adopt their son Jason. The family of four farmed the land that later became the Crystal Springs neighborhood in Battle Ground.

The land was sold after many years farming but they continued to live in the farm home. Jake, having had postal experience in the Army, was hired by the Battle Ground Post office. He also dabbled in repairing small engines used in lawn equipment. Jake and Cel loved to go camping in their truck mounted camper and were able to visit many family and friends across the US.

After Cel, the love of his life, passed away in 2005 Jake moved to Vancouver to live closer to their church of which he was an active member. He served as Deacon and also faithfully sang in the choir, participated in Bible studies, and was involved in many other activities. He repaired medical equipment for Northwest Medical Teams and also regularly prepared and served meals to the homeless. He went on a mission trip to Honduras to build latrines for a community there and also toured the UK with his church choir, singing in several cathedrals.

Jake was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 35 years, three brothers, two brother-in-laws, and several other family members. He is survived by a daughter Kristy (Randy), a son Jason, nine grandchildren, two brothers Hank and Gary, eight sister-in-laws, two brother-in-laws, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jacob Roest was a kind, compassionate man who served his Lord by serving others. His Memorial service will be held at 2:00 on May 2nd at his church, Columbia Presbyterian Church in Vancouver, WA.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Columbia Presbyterian Church (Office & Mailing: 8715 St. Helens Ave Vancouver, WA 98664) or to Open House Ministries (900 W. 12th Str Vancouver, WA 98660).