Harold L. “Jake” Wattles, 79, Lincoln, died Friday (1-6-12). Born (3-10-32) in Friend, Nebraska to Albert and Nelle (Welch) Wattles. Jake was one of nine boys and three girls. He spent his first four years with his Grandma Welch in Exeter, NE. At a young age Jake milked cows, herded cattle, hauled coal and lumber and worked on farms to earn money for his family. Jake graduated from Friend High School in 1950, where he played basketball and met his wife Jeanette Johnson. They were married until her death in 2006. Together they raised four daughters.
During their life together they lived in Walnut, Iowa where Jake sold feed for Conkey Feed Company. They moved to Lincoln in 1968. Jake could talk to anyone and became a top car salesman for Behlen Motors and Vanice Pontiac/Cadillac. He also enjoyed being a floor detective for the New Cornhusker Hotel until his retirement in 1990. Jake was a friend of Bill W. for 40 plus years and played a part in many people’s lives introducing them to him too. Jake enjoyed all sports, especially horse racing, playing pitch and sharing stories of his life with his children and grandchildren. In his retirement years Jake grew in his faith and love for his Lord and Savior and would want to share the good news with you.
Jake is survived by his daughters Deb Walz (Dan), Rene’ Cheever, Judy Donald, and Melanie Stubblefield (Greg); ten grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; good friend Max and his dog Abby; sister Bethine Leif and brother Al. Preceded in death by his wife of fifty four years, Jen, his granddaughter Lindsey Kate Walz and brothers and sisters.
Memorial Service: 2:30 p.m. Friday (1-13-12) Roper and Sons Chapel, 4300 ‘O’ Street. Pastor Bill Thornton, officiating.
Memorials to Alcoholics Anonymous, 2748 S Street #Aa, Lincoln, NE 68503.
No Visitation.