Jacob Brennan Goethel

Goethel, Jacob Brennan , It is with heavy hearts we announce the unexpected passing of Jacob Brennan Goethel, a beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend. Jacob, known to all as Jake, departed this world at the young age of 37, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Jake was born in Charlotte, NC, on October 17, 1986. He was not a typical middle child. He was the alpha — just ask his siblings. A tremendous athlete, Jake's enthusiasm for sports knew no bounds. He excelled at baseball, basketball, soccer, football, and golf throughout his childhood and high school years. The heat of competition brought out the best in Jake; no one could throw a golf club farther than he could!

Jake spent most of his life in the Midwest, where he created enduring friendships. He began his college education at the University of Nebraska and was an avid Cornhusker fan. GBR! He graduated from Ohio University, earning his degree in Management Information Systems in 2012. His passion for technology was evident; so much so that he and his dad refused to use Apple products as he proclaimed they were technologically inferior, to the chagrin of his siblings and their family group text thread. After beginning his IT career in Omaha, Jake made Nashville his home in 2015.

Family held a special place in Jake's heart. He was affectionately known on the Kozel side of his family as “the favorite redhead.” He also reveled in his role of being Uncle Gator. His eyes would light up with joy at the mention of his 2-month-old niece, Rowan.

Jake also had an unparalleled love for dogs, and all dogs loved Jake. His furry companions, especially Terry, Sam, and Coop, were more than pets — they were cherished members of the family.

Throughout the years, Jake maintained close ties with his St. John the Baptist Catholic School friends, affectionately known as the C4. Built on decades of inside jokes, they spoke their own language; joke after joke followed by non-stop laughter.

Jake had an uncanny ability to leave a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. His warm smile, infectious laughter, quick wit, and genuine kindness endeared him to all, making him a friend to cherish and a presence to miss deeply. He quickly made friends wherever he went. Most of his siblings’ friends preferred Jake, constantly asking when they would see him next.

Jake's memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Jake’s life at Jonathan’s Grille in Mt. Juliet on Monday, December 4, from 4:00 - 7:00 pm. A visitation will be held at St. Stephen’s Catholic Community on Tuesday, December 5, beginning at 9:00 am, with funeral mass to follow at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. John the Baptist School in Plattsmouth, Nebraska, or Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue in Nashville, two causes close to Jake's heart.

Jacob Brennan Goethel is survived by his parents, Dan and Kelly; brother, Ben (Morgan); sisters, Kate (Logan) and Brenna; niece, Rowan; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and many friends who will carry his legacy forward. Messages of condolences and memories can be shared at Bond Memorial Chapel.

May His soul Rest in Eternal Peace, surrounded by the love that continues to resonate in the hearts of all those who were lucky enough to have known him.

Arrangements by Bond Memorial Chapel, N. Mt. Juliet Road and Weston Drive, Mt. Juliet, TN. (615) 773-2663. www.bondmemorial.com