Obituary of Douglas Jakway

Douglas "DougO!" Jakway's light went out on April 21 at St. Joseph's Hospital. The amateur photographer was 59 at the time of his passing. He was predeceased by his parents, Earl "Jake" and Virginia Bonner Jakway; Jake and Ginny adored their precious son. He is survived by his loving sister, Vivian Jakway Martin and brother-in-law Gary E. Martin of Syracuse; his dedicated, loving and loved partner, Kathleen A. Hart of North Syracuse; and a half-brother, Jonathan Jakway of Liverpool. He graduated from T.J. Corcoran High School and attended Onondaga Community College. He worked for 24 years at OCM BOCES with the Science Center. His joy was delivering plants, animals and goldfish to elementary classrooms, and being known as the "the Animal Man." He loved music, especially the blues, and was a sponsor and photographer for many venues. The man with the smile behind the camera, loved taking photos of local performers and feeling that he had made a meaningful contribution to the event. His photography helped local bands and musicians gain notoriety, which, in turn, prompted musicians to strive for a higher caliber in their music. He captured both the images and hearts of the local music community. He was able to capture the essence of each of his subjects, making everyone feel like a star. A drummer since his "Bassmen" adolescence, he was proud to donate his drums to the Center for the Arts in Homer, NY. In doing so, he felt he not only contributed to current and future musicians, but could also "drive many mothers crazy instead of just one." He was a Yankee and SU fan, who enjoyed watching old TV shows and vintage movies. He especially admired Marilyn Monroe and was an avid collector of her memorabilia. Doug was very serious about fun, humor and was especially known for his one-liners, such as, "I'm not my fault." He was a gentle and genuine gentleman who touched many lives with his kindness and generosity. DougO truly loved all and was loved by all. He will be greatly missed and will live in our hearts forever. Friends and loved ones will have calling hours at A. Dewitt Memorial Funeral Home, 4612 South Salina St., Syracuse, on Tuesday April 29, from 4 - 7PM, with a Memorial Service to take place during visitation. On Wednesday at 1PM loved ones will gather at the Garden of the Last Supper, at White Chapel Cemetery on Kinne Road, for burial.