Merl Jacobsen

Born in Grant Township, Grundy, Iowa. Married Nancy Polhman Bernbrock. Dr. Jacobsen's first degree was from the Univeristy of Northern Iowa; majored in music and voice. In college he played in the concert band and after graduation played saxophone in a dance band and taught music. Served in the Army during the Koran War. Following his military career Merl received a pre-med degree from Drake University and his D.O. degree from Des Moines University in June 1958. He started his medical practice in Littleton in 1959 and retired in 1999.

Survived by two sons, Gregory Merl (Diane) Jacobsen and Griffin Brook (Belinda) Jacobsen; 5 grandchildren, Tyler of St. John, FL; Bryan of Forney, TX, Jared of Denton, TX, Nicole Jacobsen-Mayberry of Dallas, TX and Erik of Denver.

After retiring, Merl spent 16 years volunteering with Project C.U.R.E., the world's largest distributer of donated medical equipment and supplies to resource-limited communties across the globe in more than 135 countries. Merl traveled extensively and set up clinics and provided medical treatment throughout Africa, China and South America. Merl also led a significant portion of a capital campaign raising funds to purchase Project C.U.R.E world headquarters & warehouse in Centennial, CO.

Merl was active in the Littleton Rotary Club, serving as club President from 1982-1983 and recived the "Service Above Self Lifetime Honorary Membership Award." Merl recieved the Sertoma "Service To Mankind Award." Merl received the News 7 "Everyday Hero 2008 Award." Both Merl and his wife Nancy were involved with musicals. Predeceased by his wife Nancy, and sisters Vera Lee and Marlys Tudehope. Music, travel, poker and "helping other people" were always part of Merl's personal and professional life.