Gerald "Jake" Michael Falasca, Jr.

life story

Loving Uncle & an Indomitable force

Lifelong musician and teacher loved by his family, his students, and his friends.

About Jake

Beloved son, brother, partner, uncle, and friend, Jake passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 2nd, in Chino Hills, CA. He was surrounded by his partner, Linda S. Carlson, and his mother, Madeline Wasson-Burns.

Born in Lynn, MA, Jake grew up in Saugus, where his larger-than-life personality started to take shape. While his birth name was Gerald, it was after watching a WWE cage match with the legendary Jake “The Snake” Roberts that he adopted the name "Jake," setting the stage for a life full of adventure, humor, and an unshakable individuality.

Jake was a unique mix of quick wit, creativity, and endless curiosity. A lifelong lover of music, he was self-taught on nearly every instrument he could get his hands on and loved sharing his knowledge—whether teaching others or learning something new himself.

As a child, Jake was full of quirks and energy. He dabbled in rap music, spent Saturday mornings watching Creature Double Features, and nurtured a lifelong love for Sci-Fi and Godzilla, which he shared with his nephews. His skills in breakdancing, BMX biking, and street hockey, earned him a torn meniscus and a killer scar.

High school saw Jake’s interests evolve—he swapped his Adidas for cleats and a clarinet, blending his love for sports and music. His dedication to both would lead him to Berklee College of Music, where he graduated cum laude with a degree in Music and a minor in Music Education. For 26 years, Jake devoted himself to teaching music, leaving a lasting mark on all his students. His passion for music was contagious, and his love for teaching was immeasurable.

In 1999, Jake took a leap of faith and moved to California with nothing but a few dollars and a trusty Chevy S10. There, he built a life filled with work, dance, laughter, and unforgettable adventures with Linda, who was his rock. He became known for his infectious humor, his love of life, and his uncanny ability to offer "sweetheart" advice that no one ever forgot.

But Jake’s talents went far beyond music. He was also a passionate dancer. He and Linda spent countless hours perfecting their cha-cha, waltz, and other ballroom styles. Jake was magnetic on the dance floor, and his joy for rhythm was as vital to him as breathing.

Jake’s love for life was unparalleled. He was a force of energy, and deeply devoted to his family. His summers were filled with laughter and love, whether chasing his niece and nephews with seaweed, telling wild stories during "guess the movie" games, or simply making memories that will last forever. His family meant the world to him, and he touched each of them with his boundless love and his one-of-a-kind spirit.

Though Jake’s journey was brief, his impact was monumental. His family will forever miss his humor, wisdom, and warmth. In the words of J.R.R. Tolkien, “In sorrow we must go, but not in despair. Behold! We are not bound forever to the circles of the world, and beyond them is more than memory.”

Jake is survived by his mother, Madeline Wasson-Burns; his stepfather, John Burns, whom he deeply appreciated for his support and guidance over the years; his father, Gerald M. Falasca; his sisters, Renee Howard (Chris) and Lynne Hatch (Seth); his cherished niece, Emma Howard; his nephews, Michael Howard, Gehrig, and Henry Hatch, with whom he shared an unbreakable bond; and his beloved dog, Sofia Loren, who was his constant companion in his final years.

memorial service

Remembrance Gathering

April 6, 2025

Rosaria Restaurant 190 Main St #2, Saugus, MA 01906, USA

Friends and family are invited to a remembrance gathering of his remarkable life, his dedication to his life's pursuits and commitment to his family.