Dr. Donald Jacobs passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones by his side on Sunday, Sept 27th at the age of 95.

He was born in 1931 and raised in Iron Mountain, Michigan. He was always determined to return to the U.P. after graduating medical school at the University of Michigan in 1957.

Donald was from humble beginnings, but with the help from his parents, John and Doris Jacobs and many aunts and uncles, he and his two late brothers (Jack and Paul) were able to create professional careers and give back to their communities in the U.P. Donald enjoyed sharing the story of how he hitchhiked to college in Ann Arbor by 9 separate rides, with his grandfather’s suitcase and $35.00 in his pocket.

He and his devoted wife of 72 years, Sally (nee Turosky) returned to Iron Mountain after medical training, where he began his medical practice in 1959. He was a general medical practitioner, surgeon, and obstetrician (delivering over 1000 babies.) He has been a member of the Dickinson County Memorial Hospital System since that time and throughout the various changes the hospital has undergone over the years (Marshfield Medical System and Sanford Health.) Dr. Jacobs practiced medicine for 66 years and was able to enjoy his community retirement celebration this recent July, honoring his lifelong dedication to his patients, colleagues, and a life to serving others in the surrounding communities. His love of medicine and his patients never diminished.

Along with various medical positions, Dr. Jacobs was involved with many civic organizations in the local and regional communities. He was awarded Citizen of the Year in 1981, and was President and Lieutenant Governor of the local Kiwanis Club (creating five new clubs in the U.P.) His love for wildlife was an incentive for him and others to collaborate with the DNR to create “Wildlife Unlimited” chapters across the U.P.

Beyond Donald's enjoyment in working (“I never worked a day in my life”), he reveled in hunting, fishing, golfing, playing piano, all things Maze and Blue, and playing cards at camp with his buddies. Donald was a very spiritual person and had a strong faith in God; spending much dedicated time in the St. Mary’s Orthodox Church. His Lebanese heritage was also rooted in that faith, and he treasured and taught his family the significance of their background so they might continue the deep traditions he was reared in.

Donald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He prioritized family and enjoyed time he could spend with them.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sally; children, John (Kim), Fred, and Cheryl (David); six grandchildren, Josh, Jessie, Dominic, Gina, Spencer, and Sadie; three great grandchildren, Alice, Maggie, and Teddy; sisters-in-law, Marion Jacobs, and Lorraine Jacobs; and many nieces; and nephews.

Donald’s humor and humility brought joy and inspiration to all those around him. He cultivated friends over the years spanning the various facets of his personal and professional life. He also consistently helped those in need.

He will be mostly remembered for his humble personality, friendliness, sweet mischief, charitable spirit, and kindness to all. As we bid farewell, may his memory continue to inspire kindness to serve others, laughter, and a commitment to making the world a better place.

The family is grateful for all the love and support he received during declining health. A special thank you to the Dialysis Unit staff; and all the special caregivers; especially, from Corner Stone who brought so much heart and kindness to Donald and his family. Additional gratitude to Bernice St. John and Rick Sherman for their constant care, friendship, and devotion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Dr. Donald Jacobs to support the Dickinson Hospital Healthcare Enhancement Fund at Sanford Health-Marshfield Clinic, which assists patients. Gifts may be made online at www.sanfordhealthfoundation.org or mailed to Sanford Health Foundation-Marshfield Clinic, 1000 North Oak Avenue, 1R1, Marshfield, WI 54449. Please indicate “Dickinson Hospital Healthcare Enhancement Fund for Dr. Donald Jacobs” with your gift. Donations may also be considered in Dr. Donald Jacobs’ honor to St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, or a charity of your choice.

The funeral will be livestreamed via the Facebook page of St. Mary Orthodox Church.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron Mountain, MI. Trisagion Prayers will be recited at 5:30 p.m., at the funeral home by Father Mark Hagan. Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, October 2, 2026, at St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, Iron Mountain, MI, with Father Mark Hagan officiating. Burial will take place in Cemetery Park, Iron Mountain.

The family invites you to join them for a luncheon to be held at Pine Grove Country Club, Iron Mountain, MI, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., on Friday.

Friends may leave condolences and tributes to Donald’s family online at www.jacobsfuneralhomes.com

The family has chosen Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron Mountain, MI, to honor Dr. Donald Jacobs’ legacy of life.