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Jacob John Onesti, 38, of Hatley, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, following a motor vehicle accident. Remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and hardworking business owner, Jacob leaves behind a family whose love and shared memories were at the center of his life.

His death has brought sorrow to relatives, friends and members of the Hatley community. Beyond his work and professional accomplishments, Jacob was deeply proud of the family he built with his wife, Rebecca, and the life they shared with their two children, Levi and Cain.

Early Life and Family Background

Jacob was born on May 9, 1988, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to Jim and Jenny (Goldsberry) Onesti. His life remained closely connected to his family and the community where he grew up.

On June 21, 2014, he married Rebecca Szews at St. Florian’s Catholic Church in Hatley. Their marriage marked the beginning of a family life that became Jacob’s greatest source of happiness and pride.

Those closest to him remember a man who worked hard for the people he loved and valued the everyday moments that made family life meaningful.

Building a Business Through Hard Work

For approximately 10 years, Jacob owned and operated Onesti Custom Tile, developing his business through dedication, skill and persistence.

Running a business requires more than technical ability. It calls for reliability, commitment and the willingness to put in long hours to meet responsibilities. Jacob’s work reflected his determination to provide for his family while building something of his own.

His close friend Matt Alwes played an important role in helping him get the business started. Their friendship and shared efforts became part of the story behind Jacob’s professional journey.

Although his work was an important part of his life, it was not what he considered his greatest accomplishment. That place belonged to his wife and children.

A Devoted Husband and Loving Father

Jacob cherished his wife, Rebecca, affectionately known as Becky, and their children, Levi and Cain. His family was the center of his world, and the experiences they shared created memories that will remain important to those he leaves behind.

He especially enjoyed spending time with Levi, sharing a love of baseball and riding bikes. These ordinary but meaningful activities reflected the bond between father and son and the memories that families carry long after a loved one is gone.

His relationship with Cain was also part of the family life he treasured. Jacob’s commitment to his children extended beyond providing for their needs; he wanted to be present in their lives and create experiences they could remember.

His family’s request for memorial contributions toward the children’s college fund reflects that enduring commitment to their future.

Love of Hunting, Camping and the Outdoors

Outside work, Jacob enjoyed spending time outdoors. Elk hunting, traveling and camping with his family were among the activities he valued.

These interests gave him opportunities to step away from the demands of running a business and enjoy time with the people closest to him.

He was also affectionately known as “the deer skinner,” a nickname that captured a memorable part of his life and the personality remembered by those who knew him.

The stories, shared adventures and familiar expressions associated with Jacob are likely to remain treasured parts of his family’s memories.

Family and Loved Ones Mourn His Passing

Jacob is survived by his wife, Rebecca “Becky” Onesti; their children, Levi and Cain; his parents, Jim and Jenny Onesti; his brother, Josh Onesti; and his sister, Alyssa Chroge, along with their families.

He is also survived by his parents-in-law, Steven and Annette Szews, extended relatives, close friend Matt Alwes, and his beloved pets, Gunnar and Boots.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Johnny Goldsberry; several grandparents-in-law; and his cousin, Casey Duginski.

His passing leaves a significant absence in the lives of his family and friends. The people who knew him will remember not only his work ethic but also his family devotion, outdoor interests and the personal connections he built throughout his life.

Funeral Arrangements for Jacob John Onesti

A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026, at St. Florian’s Catholic Church in Hatley, Wisconsin.

Rev. Junabe Villapaz and Rev. Steven Weller will officiate. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.

Visitation is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. on October 30, continuing until the service begins. Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home in Wittenberg is assisting the family with arrangements.

In place of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions toward a college fund for Jacob’s children. This request offers relatives, friends and community members an opportunity to support Levi and Cain as they continue to grow and pursue their future goals.

Those planning to attend should confirm the arrangements with the funeral home in case any details change.

Jacob John Onesti: Personal Details

A Lasting Legacy of Family and Dedication

Jacob’s life was shaped by his devotion to his wife and children, his commitment to his work and his enjoyment of time spent outdoors. He built a business through sustained effort, but the family he raised remained his greatest source of pride.

His sudden death at 38 leaves loved ones facing a loss that cannot be measured by a list of accomplishments. The memories he created with Becky, Levi and Cain, along with the friendships and family connections he nurtured, form an enduring part of his legacy.

Heartfelt condolences go out to Rebecca, Levi, Cain, the Onesti and Szews families, and all those mourning Jacob’s passing.

Disclaimer

This obituary is based on the family information supplied for publication. Funeral arrangements and memorial requests are reported as provided and should be confirmed with Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home if needed. The family’s request for contributions toward the children’s college fund is included as stated in the supplied notice.