Nominated 2023
Jake was born In Berlin in 1922 and graduated from Berlin High School in 1938. He entered the Army in 1942 and was in the Signal Corps in Europe for 37 months during World War II where he gained his lifelong communicator skills. He was part of six companies for which he received the Silver Star. Jodarski attained the rank of First Sargent. He was part of the battles of Normandy, the Ardennes Offensive (also known as the Battle of the Bulge) and others throughout Europe. In later years he was a featured speaker at Berlin High School sharing his war experiences with the students.
Upon returning from service in 1945, Jake started with the Wisconsin Telephone Company which became a 37 ½ year commitment.
His career also included service to his community both politically and as a volunteer for a number of organizations. He began his political career in 1966 when he ran for alderman of his ward. Then in 1969 Jodarski ran for Mayor and served until 1977. Eight years later he ran again and won another two terms for a total of six terms.
One of his longest involvements was with the Berlin Community Development Corporation (BCDC) and the Berlin Industrial Development Corporation *BIDC). These organizations provide help to existing Berlin industries and/or assist new industries to locate to Berlin. In 2005 Jake received a commendation from the City of Berlin on his 25th anniversary with the BCDC. He continued to work with the organizations for 14 more years.
Jodarski served a President of the Berlin Rotary, past commander of the VFW, member of the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Order of Foresters, life member and past President of the Berlin Alumni Association, and past president of Telephone Pioneers of America.
Jake passed away in November of 2019 at the age of 98.
Advise Jodarski shared with his three sons: Study hard, get a good education, work hard, be a responsible citizen.