Jake Gunchick

Jake Thomas Gunchick, 31, passed away May 23, 2019. Jake was born June 27, 1987 in Blair, Nebraska.

Jake graduated from Blair High School, and continued his education at the University of Nebraska Omaha, and Metropolitan Community College.

Jake is survived by his father, Daniel L. Gunchick, his daughter Micah, many aunts and uncles, and close friends from across the country that he considered family. He was preceded in death by his mother, Susie Gunchick.

Jake had many interests and activities he enjoyed including fishing, golfing, snowmobiling, painting, four-wheeling, and paintballing. But most of all, Jake loved to ride his motorcycle. He loved the freedom his motorcycle offered him and would often tell stories of the motorcycle road trips he would take with his dad.

In 2014, Jake was hired by Union Pacific Railroad, which later brought him to Pocatello, Idaho. He excelled in his position as a conductor and came to know many of his co-workers as family.

On June 9, 2018, Jake suffered a stroke that caused paralysis to the left side of his body from which he made almost a complete recovery. Jake was determined, driven, and hard working in all aspects of his life including his recovery and healing, which led to his great progress and his ability to live independently after his split from his fiancé shortly after his stroke.

Jake lived his life to the fullest, spending his recent time with his close friends and family, and his daughter Micah. Jake often travelled for his therapeutic treatments, but he also visited many places for fun and adventure, and to visit his family for the holidays. During his recovery, Jake had the support of many people who were close to him, for whom he was very grateful. He also spoke highly of the therapists and doctors that helped him along the way.

Jake was looking forward to getting back to working for the UPRR. He recently had applied for a position with them in Omaha, Nebraska, which his family later learned he had received the day of his passing.
Jake was an amazing person and he should be remembered for the kind, funny, inspiring, and hardworking man that we all know and love. He will be missed greatly by all who were blessed to know him.

A celebration of life will be held from 1-4 PM, Sunday, June 9, 2019 at the Liberty Hall Event Center, 325 W. Benton, in Pocatello.

Memories and condolences may be shared under the "Tribute Wall" tab above. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made at US Bank to help cover Jake's final expenses.