It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Rev. Jacob Bouw Jr., who was commonly known just as “Jake.” During his time on earth, he was a pastor, a linguist, and a missionary. Jacob was a beloved husband, father, devoted foreign missionary, pastor, and esteemed member of his community.
During his time in the Philippines, he learned to speak several different languages fluently in order to understand those with whom he lived … the people of the Philippines. He was loved for his friendly manner wherever he went, whether it was the remote mountains of the Philippines or the streets of Walton and Downsville. He loved people. Wherever he went, he created personal connections with others, and his love for Jesus was apparent.
Jacob attended the Nyack Missionary Training Institute (now Nyack College) at which time he felt called to be a missionary and where he met his first wife, Lois Marie Schlaegel Bouw. He also studied for a Masters degree and pastored 3 churches in the State of Maine.
He dedicated over 40 years of his life to being an international worker with the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination. He embodied the principles of compassion and dedication in every endeavor. His passion for preaching inspired many, as he traveled extensively, spreading the good news of the gospel. Even as a young man he was a faithful member of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church in Downsville, where he touched lives and fostered a spirit of community.
Beyond his missionary and pastoral duties, Jacob loved taking pictures of the places and people he met. It didn’t matter whether they were in black & white or color. He embraced life! Jake loved to sing … usually loudly! He liked old cars, tractors, and machines, as each represented a piece of his family history.
Jacob was born on February 20, 1926, in Rutherford, New Jersey, and went to be with his Lord on April 9, 2025, at the age of 99. A resident of Walton, New York, Jacob’s journey was marked by a deep commitment to his Lord and Savior and service to others.
Jacob was predeceased by his father Jacob Bouw Sr, his mother Johanna Bouw (Van Rooy) and his first wife Lois Marie (Schlaegel) Bouw, two brothers: Rev. William Bouw (Grace) and Henry Bouw (1st wife Dawn, 2nd wife Vera), and his sister Johanna Ambler (Rev. Robert).
Jacob is survived by his beloved wife, Suzette (Gatchalian) Bouw, his four children; all of whom were born in the Philippines, Jacob Daniel Bouw (Pat), Marlene Joy R. Berg (Ron), Janet Lorene Olson (Jeff) and Jonathan Henry Bouw (Karen), his grandchildren; Bethany (David), Rachel, Stephen (Chelsey), Jonathan (Deanna), Rebecca (Kai), Daniel, Evangeline, Isaac, and Hudson (Madeline), his great-grandchildren; Henrik, Theo, Hans, and Lars. Jacob is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Calling hours will be held at Riverside Alliance Church located at 110 Stockton Ave., Walton, NY 13856 on April 17, 2025, from 10 - 11 a.m. , service is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with burial to follow at the Walton Cemetery located at 55 Fancher Avenue, Walton, NY, 13856.
Following the burial, friends, family, and community members are invited to gather at the church for a time of fellowship and refreshments to celebrate his life, reflect on his legacy, and honor his service to God and humanity.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Courtney Funeral Home, Walton, NY. To leave a message of peace and comfort for Jacob’s family, please visit his online tribute at www.courtneyfh.com
