Jacob B. Darling

Jacob B. Darling, 90, Indianapolis, died August 15 surrounded by family. In 1955, he earned a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from General Motors Institute (GMI). While working at the Allison Division of General Motors Corporation he earned a Master of Science in Industrial Operations from Purdue University. He remained at Allison until his retirement in 1987.

After retirement he loved traveling across America in their 36 foot motorhome with his wife Phyllis. Their favorite places to visit were Alaska and the Southwest, especially Arizona. When at home, he spent many hours in his workshop where he could fix anything and created beautiful wood projects. Some of our favorite pieces are a cherry inlaid rocking horse for his grandson, jewelry boxes and cedar chests for his granddaughters.

One of Jakes greatest joys was his family. He enjoyed sharing stories of his childhood and was always ready to go on an adventure even if it got him in trouble. He loved camping with his family regardless of whether he was teaching them about the outdoors or snuggling around the campfire. Jake made sure to spend time individually with his grandchildren and often did special things with them. He would take them on experiences that included dancing at The Indiana Roof Ballroom, train rides, a hot air balloon ride, an excursion to the Air Force Museum or a visit to the Indiana State Fair. You never knew where you might end up but knew it would be wonderful. As his children and grandkids grew one of Jake’s special talents was welcoming the people they fell in love with into the family. We will always love him for that.

Those closest to Jake will miss his sense of humor, ability to look at something and immediately know a fix for it and his undying love for his wife and family. He knew how to make every person he came in contact with feel special. Jake is preceded in death by his parents Matilda and Jacob Darling and his brother Ervin. He is survived by his wife Phyllis Darling, son David Darling, Daughters Donna Kopetsky (John) and Mary Raisor (Keith); and seven grandchildren, Adrienne (Mark), Cassandra (Phillip), Victoria (Ray), Brianna, Gabrielle, Benjamin (Heather), and Madison. Jake had four great-grandchildren Rylee, Logan, Connor and Samuel.

Visitation will be held at Flanner Buchanan-Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Connor Suite), 9700 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis on Saturday, August 20, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a service at 1 p.m.  Interment will follow in Oaklawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery.