Celebrating the Life and Light of Jacob William Fain December 28, 2002 – July 28, 2025

With broken hearts but full of gratitude for the time we had with him, we share the news that Jacob William Fain, 22, of Middlebury, passed away on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 3:04 p.m., at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, following a traffic accident.

Jake was born in South Bend on a snowy December day in 2002 to Charles W. and Terri D. (Howard) Fain, who survive him and remain surrounded by the enduring love of their daughter, Riley D. Fain, Jacob's devoted sister and lifelong sidekick. Together, their bond was unshakable, a team bound by laughter, mischief and music.

To know Jacob was to feel seen, accepted, and deeply appreciated. His heart was wide open—to friends, to family, to strangers-turned-friends. Whether you were a blood relative, a childhood neighbor, a fishing buddy, or one of his beloved "band of brothers," Jake had a way of making you feel like you belonged. That "band" wasn't just a group of close friends—it was a full-blown fellowship, a tribe of fiercely loyal young men who redefined what family truly means.

Though he left this world far too soon, Jacob lived every moment with electric purpose. He poured his passion into the work he did as a roofer, earning not only the trust and admiration of his coworkers, but the unique honor of being nicknamed "Yacob the Bishop" by his Amish teammates—a playful nod to his confident stride and natural leadership. It was a nickname he wore with amused pride.

Outside of work, Jake found joy wherever the road, trail, or river took him. He was happiest with the wind in his face astride his motorcycle, or with a line in the water, the sun overhead, and nothing but the gentle rhythm of nature around him. He loved the outdoors. He loved America. And he had an abiding respect for those who protected its people—our military, police officers, and first responders. Jacob had recently been considering a life of service in uniform, a calling that would have suited his protective heart and adventurous soul perfectly.

He also had a fun-loving, mischievous side—loud music, spirited debates, the occasional celebratory round at the shooting range. He was passionate about the Second Amendment and unapologetically proud of his beliefs. But always, always, he carried himself with kindness, humility, and an almost magical ability to make people feel at ease.

Jacob was one of those rare souls who never met a stranger. He loved deeply, defended fiercely, and embraced people of all kinds. He saw the good in everyone. With his easy grin, his sharp wit, and his ever-hopeful outlook, he could light up a room just by walking into it. And in the quiet moments, he was the guy who'd check on you just to say, "Hey, you alright?" And if you weren't—he'd stay, talk, and listen. Then he'd flash that trademark smirk and say, "It's alright."

Because to Jacob, it always would be.

His life will be celebrated in a gathering of family and friends at Billings Funeral Home in Elkhart on Friday, August 8, 2025, beginning at 3:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 4:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Jeremy Sarber. In accordance with the family's wishes, cremation will follow the services.

And if you knew Jake, you probably also know what happens next: somewhere in the days to come, there will be a bonfire, stories told well past midnight, and laughter through the tears. It's exactly how he'd want to be remembered—surrounded by love, under the stars, with friends who are family.

He is preceded in death by both sets of grandparents, who surely welcomed him home with open arms.

In lieu of sorrow, the family invites everyone to carry Jacob's legacy forward—live boldly, love freely, protect the overlooked, and never leave a friend behind. And when life gets heavy and uncertain, remember his favorite line:

"It's alright."