Obituary of Jake P. Mocko

Jake Peter Mocko, of Madison, passed away at home peacefully, at the young age of 20, on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 surrounded by his family who loved him deeply.

Jake is survived by his loving parents, Jennifer Halker and Steven Mocko; two devoted sisters, Madeline and Paige Mocko; his maternal grandparents, Joy Thompson and Gary Halker; his paternal grandparents, Linda Quinlan and John Mocko; and his aunts and uncles, Jamie Hayden, Emily Halker, Lindsay Favergeat, David Mocko, Bryan Mocko and James Mocko.

Jake was born on February 20, 2004 and lived a life marked by unwavering optimism, compassion and kindness. He devoted his entire life to helping others, and he inspired countless people with his enthusiasm and positivity. Jake had a passion for life and a passion to do whatever he could for others in need, even in the midst of his courageous three and a half year battle with cancer.

Jake worked at the front desk at the Madison YMCA for the past two years. He decided to start a dual language subscription so that he could learn to speak Spanish fluently. Jake wanted to be able to help Spanish speaking members who needed assistance at the YMCA. He also donated money from his paycheck to the YMCA to help others in need.

Jake was a volunteer this past year at Kessler. He wanted to help counsel other young people with spinal cord injuries and provide the support he wished he had when he was staying there.

Jake attended County College of Morris where he was working on his degree in digital design.

Jake was a Boy Scout and he also earned his Black Belt at Ascent Taekwondo, under the incredible mentoring of Master Brian O’Connor. He loved playing Dungeons and Dragons with his friends and his character’s name was Harengon. The rabbit-like D&D Harengon are a curious, whimsical and delightfully swift species. Originating from the magical realms of the D&D Feywild, the Harengon hopped into other worlds, urged on by a love of freedom, exuberance and travel.

Jake has inspired us all by the way he lived, and our lives are richer because of his. His life may have been short but his legacy will be forever.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to gather to celebrate Jake’s life at a visitation that will be held on Sunday, November 24, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made in Jake’s memory to Ronald McDonald House Charities, 26345 Network Place, Chicago, IL 60673-1263 or to the Madison Police PBA Local 92, 62 Kings Rd, Madison, NJ 07940.