We have lost a dearly loved man and a bright light in this world with the passing of Jake Purdon Sezna on Tuesday, January 15, 2025. Jake leaves behind a legacy of community and a life rich in relationships.
Born Jacob Purdon Sezna in 1987, in Wilmington, Delaware, Jake spent his childhood in Wilmington. He attended Salesianum School, a boy’s school with a “welcoming and exciting environment” where he thrived. He was known for the vitality, humor, and joy he brought to this community with his talent for comedy, improv, acting, dancing, and singing. He was respected as a student leader and accomplished athlete in lacrosse. Jake treasured the brotherhood he found there. He remained engaged with this community of friends who have been a source of great adventure, companionship and support throughout his lifetime.
Following high school, Jake moved to New York City where he pursued his passion for film and theater. He later continued his education at Penn State University where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. Jake then worked in the field of Medical Device Sales and Marketing. In his free time, he enjoyed the game and camaraderie of golf.
Jake realized his most important mission in life- the love and care of his close family and his extensive network of treasured friends. Inclusive, kind, affectionate and upbeat, he was an uplifting and unifying force. People knew Jake as an encourager who affirmed and celebrated the strengths, he saw in those around him. His life can be summarized with the words:
“For those to whom love is a stranger, let them find a friend in me.”
While gone from this earthly realm, Jake will be forever a part of the many lives he touched along the way.
Jake is survived by: his loving and devoted parents, Sandra Purdon Canipe and Gary D. Canipe; his father, Ronald Grier Sezna; his beloved siblings, brother, Zachary Purdon Sezna; Samantha Jean Sezna Blanco and her husband, Austen Blanco, and Jake’s cherished niece and nephew, Ruby Jane Blanco, and Callam Bowie Blanco; as well as a large family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who will greatly miss him and the fun they shared together.
Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Thursday, January 23, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803. A private interment will follow the visitation. A Celebration of Life service will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity Children’s Camp 2025: “Building Up the Body of Christ for Young Christians” at the following website: trinitychurchnc.com. This camp remains free of charge through your generous donation.
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