June 25, 1949- December 6, 2023
Celebration of Life
Sunday, April 14, 1:00-4:00 p.m., Thurmont American Legion Hall
Light lunch, cash bar, music & memory-sharing
Gary Paul “Jake” Jagow, 74, of Littlestown, PA, passed away suddenly on December 6, 2023, from complications following emergency heart bypass surgery and RSV. That day, the angels recruited a new drummer for their heavenly rock & roll band.
Gary was born on June 25, 1949, in Niagara Falls, NY. He was the son of the late Victor Russel and Betty Louise (Wise) Jagow.
While at Thurmont High School, he kept the beat going as drummer for The Coachmen, a popular 60s rock & roll dance band, founded and managed by his father. After graduation in 1967, he began his career in radio at WTHU, when the station first went on the air. Gary then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where they were quick to recognize and utilize his radio talent. He worked for the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service while he was stationed in Greenland and Germany. After proudly serving his country, Gary returned home to continue his career at WTHU. He eventually went on to become a well-known radio personality with Frederick’s WFMD/WFRE stations. When syndication forever changed radio, Gary decided to change gears, to leave the studio confines for the freedom of the open road as a delivery driver for AmeriGas Propane.
Most recently after retirement, he was a Frederick County Meals on Wheels driver, where he loved all of his coworkers. He held a special place in his heart for the elderly folks he looked forward to seeing every day. His dedication and caring nature surely will be missed.
Throughout his work career, Gary continued to play drums or bass guitar in several prominent bands, including Don Barnes & The Countrymen and Full House.
Gary had a remarkably eclectic musical ear and enjoyed everything from rock, country, and jazz classics to German oompah and modern jazz. He also loved attending drum and bugle corps competitions. He volunteered in his younger years for a few weeks during the summer as a drum line assistant. He was also an avid animal lover, classic car enthusiast, and always enjoyed celebrating his family’s German heritage, especially during Oktoberfest season.
Gary is survived by his cherished life partner of 33 years, Harriette Mathews; his sister Gwen Leahy and husband Jerry of Wellsboro, PA; one nephew and niece; precious friends, Alban Little and Rocky Birely, plus countless other friends and band mates.
On January 26, 2024, Gary was inurned at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery with the full military honors he had earned and rightly deserved. Please join us as we celebrate his amazing life on Sunday, April 14, from 1:00-4:00 p.m., at the Thurmont American Legion.
Memorial donations may be made to Frederick County Meals on Wheels.
