Jacob Reid Giles

With broken and heavy hearts we announce the passing of Jacob Reid Giles at the young age of 30.

Jake died at his home in Langford in the early hours of Nov. 30. He leaves behind many people who love him deeply, including his mother, Heather Stephenson; sister, Paige Stephenson; partner, Shalu Mehta; father, Peter Giles; grandmother, Carrol Giles; grandfather, Peter Giles and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his Nanny, Valerie Stephenson. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Cedar, and cat, Logan.

Anyone who knew Jake understood that he was kind, gentle and extremely loving. He wasn’t a man of many words, but bloomed when he was in nature. He had a soft spot for plants and animals and was happiest when he was digging in the dirt with his bare hands, searching for rocks with his dog, Cedar, on local beaches or finding snakes and frogs outside.

It’s unsurprising that his passions transferred to his career as a Red Seal certified horticulturist. Jake was proud of his work and landscaping business and spoke fondly of his time learning at the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific. He valued being able to pursue his passions and his clients valued his expertise and love of the outdoors.

Jake struggled with addiction for years and was nearly two months sober from drugs and alcohol when he relapsed. He purchased toxic street drugs — something out-of-character for him — the night before he died. His life was cut short by the impacts of the toxic drugs he was supplied.

Jake was very open about his battle with addiction and wouldn’t have wanted us to shy away from talking about this. His family is choosing to note these details in the hopes that it may help prevent similar deaths in the future.

He also wasn’t defined by his addiction.

Jake was looking forward to moving into a new apartment with his partner, Shalu, and was excited to see his family over the holidays. He communicated through acts of service, with some of his most recent acts demonstrating the immense care he had for the people and pets in his life.

He had plans to travel and was slowly convincing his partner to get another dog so Cedar could have a friend. Jake was looking forward to another year working outdoors in places that he grew to love and care for. He was also hoping to become more involved in the NA community and was excited about the new connections he made at meetings.

Jake’s big heart and capacity for empathy, care and kindness was evident in everything he did. The large number of people that love him are a testament to the beautiful human he was.

Jake will be loved forever.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that people make donations to the ReWired Recovery Foundation in Jake’s name. Donations can be made here: https://www.rewiredrecovery.ca/donate

Jake’s celebration of life will take place on Dec. 15 at 1 p.m. at Royal Oak Burial Park, with a gathering in the park’s chapel to follow. Dress is casual, and Stanfields and flannels are encouraged. Please bring memories of Jake to share.

To note:

Weeks before his death, Jake expressed a desire to return to the earth after he died. As such, the service will be a green burial. Jake will be in a biodegradable shroud and the land he is buried in will eventually be reforested with native trees and plants. Please come with this in mind.