Jacob Bontrager, 92, Owatonna
Jacob Bontrager, age 92, of Owatonna, peacefully left this world to be with his Lord and Savior on Sept. 8, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship, creativity, and devotion to God and his family.
Jacob was born in Barnes County, N.D., on Dec. 24, 1933, to parents Moses and Mary (Lehman) Bontrager. He grew up in the farming community, and family maintained close ties to their Amish relatives.
Jacob ventured to Long Island, N.Y., to visit his brother, where he stayed and met his future wife. On June 24, 1961, Jacob was united in marriage to Lillian Banach at Bayshore Assembly of God Church. Together, they had five children: Kathleen, Jeffrey, Charlene, Darlene, and Brian.
Jacob spent his life dedicated to God, faith, family, hard work, and the joy of creating with his hands. He possessed a remarkable talent for craftsmanship and found great satisfaction in making beautiful and meaningful things. Among his many accomplishments were his manufacturing patents and award-winning stained-glass creations, which reflected both his artistic ability and attention to detail. He was also well known for creating Checkie's Chocolates (named after a childhood nickname), sharing his passion and sweet treats with family, friends, and the community, as well as teaching several of his crafts to family members. Jacob lived life to its fullest, with many adventures, including being a hot air balloon pilot and sharing the thrill of a flight with many people.
Those who knew Jacob will remember his gentle peacekeeping spirit, strong work ethic, and willingness to lend a helping hand. He took pride in doing things well and bringing joy to those around him. Jacob's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Jacob is survived by his brother, Reuben Bontrager of Dazey, North Dakota, and by four children: Kathleen (Gerald) Harrison of Bartlett, Tenn., Jeffrey (Kathi) Bontrager of Grand Forks, N.D., Charlene (Jon) Esch of Waseca, Brian Bontrager of Wasilla, Alaska; 15 grandchildren: Nikkia, Bagriella, Alison, Bryce, Jordan, Kyle, Jon Michael, Cindy, Alicia, Andrew, Krista, Jacob, Brandon, Colton, and Shiann; 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by family members who welcomed him into God's eternal glory, including his wife, Lillian, and their infant daughter, Darlene; his parents, Moses and Mary; and siblings: Sarah, Edna, Anna, Simon, Abe, Frances, Mattie, and Amelia.
A celebration of Jacob's life will be held at Christian Family Church, 2300 Heritage Place NW, Owatonna, on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, starting with visitation at 10 a.m. and service at 11 a.m., with a light luncheon to follow. Pastor Cherrie' Peterson will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.