After a life of love and quiet grace, Jacob Menke of Wood River, IL has passed.
A life is more than dates on a stone; here is a small portion of his story.
The lessons of a parent travel forward, often without their name attached.
Bethalto:Jacob Menke, 35, passed away on Friday, May 1, 2026, at his residence. He was born on August 27, 1990, in Alton, the son of Debbie and Joe Baze of Godfrey and Steve Wade of Granite City. In addition to his parents, he is survived by two children: Emmett and Evelyn Menke, two brothers: Zackary Baze of Godfrey, Joshua Baze of Portland, Oregon, two half – sisters: Malena (Brendan) Homer of Bethalto, Emma Wade of Bethalto, his nephew: Jordan, his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.Jacob enjoyed spending time with his kids, loved hockey, and playing golf. He also enjoyed going to football games and concerts.Cremation rites will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.Memorials are suggested to the family and will be used for his children. Please make checks payable to Debbie Baze. Checks can be mailed to Pitchford Funeral Home, PO Box 626, Wood River, Illinois, 62095.
