Thomas Jacob McCollum “Jake" was born April 3, 1991 and passed away May 14, 2022. He attended La Cueva High School where he played inside linebacker and tight end for the La Cueva Bears Football team. Following high school, Jake graduated from Arizona State University with a degree of Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies in the School of Letters and Sciences in 2014. His junior year, he became a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity.

 

Jake had a deep love for his family and friends. He loved spending time with his father enjoying the outdoors, laughing as well as cooking with his mother Jane, and exploring music with his sister Kelly. He could make anyone laugh with his endless jokes, witty comments, and funny phrases. Jake leaves behind a countless group of great friends and the love of his life, his fiancé, Jamie Scott. He had such a vibrant personality and an infectious laugh that lit up the room. Jake always came blazing in and instantly brought a smile to everyone’s face. He loved to spend time with his family on the holidays, especially Christmas.

 

Similar to his grandfather Thomas Jacob “Po Po” Neukomm, Jake had a heart of gold and always knew how to help others in times of need. In the community, he never met a stranger and had a special way with people. Jake was humble, personable, loving and caring. His brilliant and sparkling Fourth of July fireworks display will forever be missed. He lived his life to the fullest, playing football, golfing, snowboarding, fishing, boating, traveling, playing basketball, and enjoying concerts. Jake loved gardening, whipping up a fresh batch of Italian beef, and watching “da” Chicago Bears.

 

Jake will be missed around town as he worked with his family, running Jersey Mike’s and Burger Kings where he could bring levity to stressful situations. Jake is preceded in death by his grandfather's Phillip Wendell McCollum, Thomas "T.J." Jacob Neukomm, and grandmother Kathleen Foster Neukomm.
He is survived by his father, Jeffrey Phillip McCollum, mother Jane Neukomm McCollum, sister Kelly Lauren McCollum, Grandmother Marjorie Koch McCollum, and many other aunts, uncles, and cousins. He had a love for animals which led him to adopt his rescue pit bull, Scooby Doo.

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Donations

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In celebration of Jake's life, donations can be made to SPCA or Make-A-Wish.

 

Flowers
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in Jake's memory, please click here.