Jacob Richard Hennefer
Jacob Richard Hennefer, 40, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, surrounded by love. Jake will be remembered as a dedicated father and husband; and a beloved son, brother, and friend whose presence left a lasting mark on all who were blessed to know him.
Jake was born in Salt Lake City on March 4, 1986 to Tina Gardner and Barry Hennefer. From an early age, Jake had a bright and energetic spirit. As a child, he loved the Ninja Turtles, Disney movies, and anything that sparked imagination and adventure. His curiosity quickly grew into a deep love for technology and gaming; he became the “master” of video games in the eyes of those who witnessed him play. As a young boy, Jake had an enthusiasm for music; he explored multiple instruments at school and had a natural ability to pick them up and play.
Aside from his early talents, Jake was known for the way he cared for others. He loved his sister Brooke and his twin siblings, Mariah and Bryce, stepping naturally into the role of protective and attentive big brother. He was especially good with “the babies,” often trusted by neighbors as a teenager to babysit because of his calm and caring nature. That same instinct carried through his entire life and became most evident later in his role as a father.
Jake built a successful career in IT, where his aptitude for technology, problem-solving mind, and genuine desire to help others made a lasting impact on colleagues and those he supported. He truly enjoyed the friends and connections he made while working for Integral IT Services. Jake had a gift for making complicated things feel simple and for showing up when people needed him most.
Outside of work, Jake’s passions were deeply felt and generously shared. Music remained one of his strongest connections to the world. He didn’t just listen to songs; he shared them and used them to express what words often couldn’t. There are many people who will forever associate certain songs with Jake and the moments they shared with him. Jake was also a loyal supporter of Real Salt Lake and a founding member of the Salt City United supporters’ group. Being part of that community meant connection and friendship; something he fully embraced and contributed to.
Above all, Jake was profoundly proud of the family he built. He spent sixteen years creating a beautiful life with his wife, Jen, whom he married on September 30, 2017. Together, they forged an unbreakable bond, enduring every storm with unwavering support. Jake's greatest accomplishment and entire world was their son, Eon Thane. His true calling in life was being a Dad; he cherished every moment with his boy, bonding over regular movie nights and video games. Jake's heart belonged to his family and his legacy will live on through them.
Jake is survived by his wife, Jen, and their son, Eon; his parents, Tina Smith (Kelly) and Barry Hennefer; his siblings, Brooke Hale (Richard), Mariah Evans (Eli), and Bryce Hennefer (Hannah); his mother-in-law, Joy Glende; his grandparents, Karen and Kent Gardner, and Lafaye Hennefer; along with a large extended family and many friends who loved him. He is preceded in death by his father-in-law, Kevin Glende and his grandfather, Russell Hennefer.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and those whose lives he touched. While his absence leaves an unimaginable void, his presence will continue to live on in memories, stories, music, and the love he gave so freely.
A celebration of life will take place in the coming months. Family, friends, and supporters will also gather to honor Jake at the Real Salt Lake home match on May 2.