Jake, i only wish we could have got to spend more time with you. It was lovely when you came to Melbourne for work and mum and i picked you up from your assignment and we spent the afternoon with you. I remember when Jenny my daughter came in from school and she told you she was studying Russian history and she was loving it, you were so happy about that. I know there are so many people who will miss you and your family here in Australia will miss the facebook messages and your amazing cartoons. RIP Jake from Joy, Auntie Theresa and all the family in Oz

You were so funny, approachable and enjoyable to be around. Ill miss your banter with Andy, Will and Kate

So many fond memories of you Jake. You possessed that rare gift of being able to find common ground with everyone you conversed with. I first met you in the early 90s through my brother who you became friends with at Kibbutz Be’eri. The three of us would often meet up at the Punch and Judy in Covent Garden on a Saturday lunchtime and take things from there. You kindly arranged for me to use your uncle’s (?) pub off the Edgware Road for my 30th and we had a fine lock-in where I was first introduced to your skills on the piano. You played the piano at our wedding service and did an amazing job. Unbeknownst to me, Mariella sent you a list of five songs she wanted you to learn and play. I still remember walking down that aisle and struck to the core on hearing your beautiful rendition of one of our favourite songs. You turned up at one of our events at the Italian Cultural Institute with an accordion and a cheeky smile and lit up the room with your impromptu music. A day in the recording studio with you at the piano holding us together throughout Sympathy for the Devil. You excitedly running to the microphone and inexplicably singing a few lines of I Can’t Explain as we carried on. I will cherish that recording even more now. You were a key member of the Music Club in the late noughties and early ‘10s and you had that ability to deliver effusive praise or a scathing critique in the richest, warmest language. You were one of the few people I’ve met who saw football shirts as fashion items rather than simple clan colours. You were a joy to be with: your wit, your humour, your vast knowledge and intellect, your honesty, your kindness and your gentle nature will never be forgotten. You will be forever missed. Our thoughts go out to all your family and friends and to Kate, who made you very happy.

Jake I will forever think of you as 1 (out of 5) surrogate brothers. You all brought me fun, laughter and frustration on a weekly, sometimes on a daily basis! You all kept my homesickness at bay and made me feel part of the family. I loved doing life with the Goretzki-Dowley clan ❤️ I remember listening to you play the piano forte and your squeeze box which you learned by ear. I remember arguing with you over the TV when there was a football match on you wanted to see and i was halfway through Neighbours or a chick flick. I remember you speaking Russian (amongst all the other languages, clever you), your belly laughs, your sadness when things became too much. Your deep intellectual discussions in which I would become completely lost but just watching your exuberance and passion as you expressed yourself was so compelling i couldn't not listen. Drinks with everyone after time and lots of laughs. I remember you asking me to give you a sniff before you headed out on a date more than once to make sure you hadn't over done the aftershave, you always got it perfect. You always had a twinkle in your eye Jake. I'm so sorry i missed seeing you and meeting your beautiful Kate when you were in NZ recently. You'll forever be in my heart and memories. Lots of love you and all you family

Jake, it's so hard to express what I want to say, but here goes: I feel very lucky to have seen you on your recent trip to NZ with Kate and to have some fresh memories of you—listening to you play the neighbour's piano while Kate, Olive, and I swam in their pool, and our day at Leigh. I've been looking over our messages on Instagram, having a good laugh (and cry). One standout is when you expressed enormous horror after I told you that the courier who delivered a present I sent to Kate had taken a photo of you collecting it from your doorstep. So funny! I'm thinking about your kind, gentle nature, your excellent music recommendations, your wit ("When’s bins?"), your generosity, and your intelligence. How much you loved Kate and how much she loves you. Thank you for being so kind to Olive when she got stuck in London and stayed with you guys during Covid (and for letting her use your watercolours!). I wish we could have held you here for longer. I’m so, so sad. Sending all my love to you, your family, your friends, and beautiful Kate.

I've started and stopped a few times in trying to write this Jake... I could reminisce about the very early days of you and Kate dating, when I first met you. Or maybe the night tat Ferme Park Road, that ended with me and Lisa getting together - and started with us all getting drunk and watching 1980s adverts on YouTube. Or Christmas at Ferme Parke Road Or more recently, I'd remind you about some of the WhatsApp voice messages you left to discuss this and that - you loved a good voice message. Or perhaps one of a multitude of other times. But to recount some of the memories isn't enough. Because, it doesn't really get across how much I thought of you. Clever, properly intellectual, well read, kind, thoughtful, brilliantly witty. And political. Yes, very political. You were formidable in any political conversation - you knew why you believed what you believed, and were a true test of whether I was really on top of my views. If I could persuade you - the job was a good'un. It is amazing how many times I find myself thinking "I wonder what Jake thinks about that" to all sorts of events, politics, etc. It's just that now, each time, I realise with a jolt that I won't get to discuss it. Or that the backlog of "things to discuss with Jake" will never get discussed after all. Jake Goretzki, you were a giant of a man, a friend, and a truly beautiful person. And you loved Kate, and she loved you. And now my heart is broken for the both of you. I'm very grateful to have had you in my life, and so very sad it couldn't be for longer. Rest in peace Jake Goretzki. And give 'em hell up there.

People who love, live, and breathe music, are always off to good start with me. People who teach me about music, well they make the very top flight. Many moons ago, Jake invited me to the music club he was part of with this mates (‘Kate’s boyfriend is alright’, thought I). From that night, I (a) set up my own music club for some of my friends where I was living and (b) decided that Jake was my favourite of my friend’s other halves. That latter view never changed. About 8 or 9 years ago, Jake came to work at the Business Design Centre where I was also working at the time … We agreed to meet for lunch. I remember Kate sharing that Jake was nervous about our first ‘date’. Moi aussi! You’re a bright, funny, educated and educating individual, Mr Jake, I wanted to make a good impression. By the time of my last story in 2024, we’d shared some of the parties and dancefloors other friends have mentioned in their memories, the odd gig and festival, a meet-up in New Zealand … The same enthused, open, decent guy making me feel comfortable and listened to. Jake had sent me a few records in the post and I’d managed at least one in return. And so I get some texts to tell me Jake had someone new he knew I was going to love (we shared a joyful love of French pop music) … The record - which I am listening to as I write this - was by Marie-Flore (Je sais pas so ça va) and arrived in the post with two postcards inserted (almost hidden) in the packaging setting out the album’s credentials: “Hi Tim (or ‘Hey’ as the kids say), so here’s Marie-Flore’s album which I absolutely love, having serendipitously discovered her on the same label as my stepbrother’s son … Marie-Flore has been on the rise as she’s ****ing awesome … Some of the songs are quite ambient and confessional. Others are simply bangers …” Jake’s review goes on and is right on the money. I love this record, I don’t know how Jake knew so well that I’d love it, that’s the skill of a teacher. Jake, thank you for sharing the music with me. And being ****ing awesome.

I have 2 favourite images of Jake: A New Year's Eve video I received of him & Kate head-banging & laughing wildly to a great tune in their living room. Pure joy. And more recently, a more tranquil memory of waking up at Kate & Jake's on a beautiful Sunday morning, all of us in our pyjamas, Jake lounging on the couch by the window in the garden room, reading bits out from the Sunday paper or the book he was reading. He always had a story, or a fact, or a "did you know". There was seemingly very little he didn't know! And he was so endlessly funny & entertaining. I loved those Sundays. They would also often involve him climbing the back wall of their garden, encouraging me to do the same, to look at the view. I always loved that. I will miss you Jake x

I’m genuinely sorry I will not be able to attend Jake’s funeral. I hope the day goes well and some lovely memories are shared by all there. I have many of my own which I will cherish, and some wonderful gifts that Jake gave my children which will always remind me of what a kind, generous, smart and fun guy he was.

I always looked forward to seeing Jake at the many parties back in the day. Kind, funny, passionate and above all a genuinely top bloke. My heart goes out to Kate, his family and friends. You are now at peace my friend. Your memory will live long in my heart. Up The Wombles! x

Dear Jake, You were a keen observer of the world, passionate and knowledgeable about literature, languages, and different cultures. You were always eager to learn and read, and your enthusiasm was infectious. You had a warm smile and an abundance of stories and anecdotes to share, along with plenty of ideas for your cartoons that everyone loved! I still remember you wearing a football T-shirt from Venezia Calcio. I asked why you chose to wear that T-shirt, especially since it was from a team not too far from where I’m from. You simply replied that you liked the style of that football T-shirt, and that one was special to you. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have met you. You will be missed deeply. I extend my heartfelt condolences to your family, relatives, and friends.

Jake, you were so generous with the time and attention you provided to everyone I saw you work with. You had a loevly ability to get to the heart of what makes someone else tick, which always led to the most entertaining and thoughtful chats. You were endlessly fascinated and fascinating—a bright spark on the days our paths crossed. I miss you and will always think fondly of our time discussing music, cartoons and strange franco-Belge kwerks. Knowing that you were part of our team made it a much nicer place to be.

Jake fizzed with creativity, curiosity and intelligence, full of fascinating stories and sharp observations about life. Working alongside him in research I was in awe of his skills - as Jonny, another of Jake’s team mates reflected the other day, Jake could turn research into any given topic into the most fascinating, fun conversations that would have everyone on the edge of their seats. And always deeply kind and respectful. In these moments, Jake was a true alchemist, creating gold. Just as he did with that simple biro and those wonderful illustrations he created.

 Jake, you will be hugely missed. Thinking of your family and friends and sending love.

Dear Jake, I'll always remember your love for quirky French expressions which allowed us to bond in a big open space, your passion for Clara Luciani's music and dance moves, your ironic cartoons, immense literary culture, and most importantly, your sensivity, poetry and attention to others. Au revoir Jake. https://open.spotify.com/track/4lcApmVDYbrfjlfDHirdR5

Dear Jake, I will remember our conversations about football, football kits, West Ham and East London fondly, and will hold them dear to my heart. The energy and enthusiasm you brought to life and work will be deeply missed, and your cartoonist expressions always carried such charisma, capturing bold messages with such wit. It was devastating to hear of your passing; I send my heartfelt condolences to your loved ones. Thanks for everything Jake. Love, Shiv.

Jake was truly great at his craft—talented, dedicated, and always willing to share his knowledge. In the time I worked with him, I saw firsthand not just his skill, but also his ability to connect with people effortlessly. He was a kind soul who made a lasting impact. My deepest condolences to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

To hear this tragic news was heartbreaking for me. My relationship was that of an ex-colleague but recently I had been in touch with Jake. I was immensely in awe of his skills and personality; unique and colourful and someone whose thoughts and musings I really enjoyed hearing – plus who can forget his wonderful cartoons and accents! I just wish he would still be amongst us now. This will be difficult to get over. Jake, you will be immensely missed.

A wonderful chap filled to the brim with intelligence and character. Always seemed to be one step ahead of everyone, yet incredibly modest. His perspectives were always unique and refreshing. May he rest easy.

I met Jake as a volunteer on my Kibbutz En Harod Ihud, Israel, a long time ago. The click was quick and inevitable. Jake was a very unique guy in many aspects. Unique sense of humor, unique knowledge of languages, unique knowledge of history of the whole world and a unique friend. His departure from us leaves a great void in his family and in everyone who knew him.

Dear Jake, It is very hard holding the knowledge that you are no longer here. Because you are here really - in our heads and hearts. You are so loved. I have so very many memories but a lot of the ones we’ve been talking about are from after you became Uncle Jakey, to Lils, Stan, Eves and Frank. Your efforts in connecting with them were and are beautiful and they all hold some fabulous memories - which we have been remembering. One recurring theme were your ideas for possible inventions, which were always amusing and genuinely crackers- such as the credit card which you could unfold into an umbrella. What? You also told Lils, when she was roughly 6/7 years old that you invented cadburys fruit and nut dairy milk. Lily naturally shared this incredible bit of information at school and circa 2007/8 you were famous at Ely St. John’s primary school - where 450 kids believed that Lily’s uncle was Mr. Cadbury. For all we know those kids, who are now around age 24, may still think that. We salute you Jake. Big Love ❤️ Love from sis-in-law, Sarah x

I will sorely miss Jake, my dear cousin. I have lots of memories from very young; visits to Henfield, Brussels, living together in the pubs, Christmases, holidays, weddings. The inventor of Ugg, being chased by cows in Barrowden, Jake sleeping in a cupboard with his feet sticking out, both of us bravely cycling North on a whim but giving up in St.Albans, listening to him practise music in the room next door, and many more. He was intelligent, talented, funny, nuts and so generous with everybody, including me and my family. I am so sad, but so thankful and happy to have shared many great times with him.

I have worked with Jake for over 3 years and during this time, he showed motivation, drive and compassion towards others. Jake loved so many things and was particularly passionate about books. He told me at one stage, he was reading one book per day, some of which he shared in our Culture Club newsletter. My deepest condolences to everyone who knew Jake. My thoughts are with his family and friends.

Jake - I'm so sad that you are gone. I have such fond memories of you in Brussels and the early post uni days in London. I will always remember you, lovely, kind, funny Jake xx.

Jake, a brother and a mate. We will always remember your cheeky smile and a packet of biscuits or the like stuffed in your jacket pocket. We will always miss you and always remember you.

Jake was one of my school pupils many years ago. It would be difficult to imagine a more lively, amusing and subtle young man. My deepest condolences to his family and friends, who I know will miss him terribly.

So many fun memories come to mind when I think of Jake! Along with his beloved Kate and friends we went to many a party, festival and dinner party dancing the night away and sharing great conversation. Jake would always be so insightful and was such a clever, articulate, gentle and funny man. We’ll never forget you.

Such sadness to have Jake leave us so soon, driven by his painful mental health affliction. We will remember his shy, smart, kind, witty and creative self with gratitude and affection. I have booked my flights to join his family and friends, in celebrating his life as we say farewell. In our Brussels days Jake was a regular presence in our home. He has been a great life friend to my son Eoghan, who is indisposed and cannot travel. But his thoughts are with Jake.

My condolences to all Jake's family. This was devastating news. I've known Jake for about 30 years, after meeting him on Kibbutz in Israel. He was such a great guy & I was so happy to have been able to have a catch up with him here in Auckland recently. He will be missed.

So sad to hear the news. It’s been a while but I still remember all the fun times. My thoughts to all his friends and family in this terrible time.

The Voice Woman much missed, how you call to me, call to me, Saying that now you are not as you were When you had changed from the one who was all to me, But as at first, when our day was fair. Can it be you that I hear? Let me view you, then, Standing as when I drew near to the town Where you would wait for me: yes, as I knew you then, Even to the original air-blue gown! Or is it only the breeze, in its listlessness Travelling across the wet mead to me here, You being ever dissolved to existlessness, Heard no more again far or near? Thus I; faltering forward, Leaves around me falling, Wind oozing thin through the thorn from norward, And the woman calling.

Thank you for setting up this memorial to Jake. We hope that you find it a positive experience developing the site and that it becomes a place of comfort and inspiration for you to visit whenever you want or need to.