Wesley “Wes” Jaqua, 78, of Sioux Falls passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, at the VA Hospice Cottage in Sioux Falls. Visitation with the family present will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, at George Boom Funeral Home & On-Site Crematory in Sioux Falls. His celebration of life service will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, also at the funeral home. Burial will be held at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery at a later date.
Wes was born on March 17, 1948, in Sioux Falls to Fred and Nellie (Alstad) Jaqua. He was baptized at Eastside Lutheran Church and attended Sioux Falls public schools. In 1966, he enlisted in the United States Army and served his country during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1969.
After returning home, Wes began working at The Paper Company in Sioux Falls. In 1970, while cruising the “Loop,” he met Judy, who would become his wife of 55 years. The two were married on July 24, 1971, and together raised three children: Jamison, Mindy and Stacey.
In 1972, Wes began what would become a lifelong career as a steel fabricator. He continued his military service in 1976 when he joined the Army National Guard, which included a trip to England for military training. Wes and Judy made their longtime home in Crooks, where they raised their family and made many memories together.
Wes was a talented woodworker who enjoyed working with his hands and could build just about anything he set his mind to. Over the years, his projects included a garage, playhouse, rocking horses, teeter-totters and furniture. Many of his handmade creations were gifted to his granddaughters, family and friends, leaving behind special reminders of his talent and love.
Wes also had a love for music, especially country music. He enjoyed playing guitar, singing and karaoke. The basement of Wes and Judy’s home became a favorite gathering place for family and friends, where many evenings were spent laughing, singing and dancing. When he wasn't building something or enjoying music, Wes loved to fish and cheer on his Minnesota Vikings, remaining a dedicated fan throughout his life.
Above all, Wes enjoyed the simple things in life, especially time spent with family and friends. Whether he was sharing a song, building something for someone he loved, or enjoying a gathering at home, he leaves behind memories that will be treasured for years to come.
Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Judy Jaqua of Sioux Falls; daughters, Mindy (Garrett) Gross and Stacey Blatchford, both of Sioux Falls; granddaughters, Ava, Elyse and Grace Gross and Ella and Morgan Blatchford; brother, Jim (Jennifer) Jaqua of Port Washington, Wisconsin; and many other family members and friends.
Wes was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Nellie (Alstad) Jaqua; his son, Jamison Jaqua; sisters, Dixie, LaVonee and Linda; and brothers, Duane and Dennis.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the VA Hospital and VA Hospice Cottage in Sioux Falls for the kindness, compassion and care they provided to Wes.
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