Barber's shop popular social spot in Fremont

7/14/2003

FREMONT - Myron E. “Jake” Jacobs, owner of a once-popular downtown barbershop where men often gathered for haircuts and socializing, died Friday of congestive heart failure at the home of his son, Myron Jacobs, Jr. He was 81.

Mr. Jacobs operated Jake's Barber Shop on Croghan Street for about 40 years, just a short distance from municipal offices and small retail shops. At one time, it drew a steady stream of customers, his son, Myron, Jr., said.

“He liked the people,” his son said. “He liked talking. He was really into the barber thing - knowing everybody and knowing what was going on in town.”

For a long stretch during his 40 years in the business, several barbers worked for him to keep up with customers. “Saturday nights were always a busy time,” Mr. Jacobs said. “He would work up until midnight cutting hair. Saturday night was the big night to come to town, and they all got their hair cut.”

But longer hairstyles brought a gradual decline to his business. “He talked about the Beatles ruining his business,” his son said. “Everybody quit getting haircuts then.”

He retired in 1983.

Born in Chatfield, Ohio, Mr. Jacobs graduated in 1939 from Tiffin Columbian High School. He was drafted into the Army during World War II, serving in the infantry in Europe and the South Pacific.

During the Korean War, he enlisted in the Air Force and became a radio operator.

In his spare time he enjoyed euchre and occasional visits to Raceway Park in Toledo.

Surviving are a son, Myron; daughter, Myra Kohlenberg; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Wonderly-Horvath Funeral Home, where the body will be on view after 2 p.m. tomorrow. The family suggests that any tributes be made to the Hospice of Memorial Hospital.