Andrew Hoge
It is with deep sorrow that we learned of the passing of our beloved uncle, Earl (Jake). He was born on a momentous day in world history, September 29, 1939, and his journey in life enriched so many.
As children, my brother Rick and I eagerly anticipated our annual summer trips from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, to Delaware, USA. These were more than family visits; they were adventures into a world of wonder and excitement. Our mother, Joyce (Laura) Hoge (nee Warrington), Jake's younger sister, and our father, Robert Hoge, had relocated to Ottawa for his work, but our early memories were deeply enriched by our time in Delaware with Uncle Jake, Aunt Elsie, and our cousins.
Delaware offered us a tapestry of awe-inspiring life experiences - from the vibrancy of farm life to the beach, sea and the boardwalk. Our first encounters with jellyfish and the thrill of being around the race cars carefully maintained by Jake and our cousins are memories that have left a lasting impact on us.
The pinnacle of these visits was always our time spent with Earl, enriching each moment with his presence.
In November 2023, a visit to Delaware allowed me to personally relive these cherished memories, albeit too briefly. Hearing Uncle Jake's calm, soft voice again brought back the profound influence he had on our lives. The traits and values he embodied are mirrored in both my brother and me to this day.
Jake was a man of integrity and kindness. His passing leaves a great void, but his legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the love he shared. We will forever hold his memory dear, continuing to carry forward the lessons he imparted through his long and exemplary life.
