Jacob John Onesti Obituary, Death: Hatley, Wisconsin, Man Dies in Motor Vehicle Accident at 38
HATLEY, WISCONSIN — October 23, 2026
The Hatley community is mourning the unexpected death of Jacob John Onesti, a 38-year-old husband, father, and local business owner who died on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, following a motor vehicle accident. His official obituary, published by Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, remembers a hardworking family man whose greatest pride was the life he built with his wife and children.
Jacob was born on May 9, 1988, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to Jim and Jenny (Goldsberry) Onesti. He grew up surrounded by family and maintained close relationships with his parents, siblings, grandparents, and extended relatives.
On June 21, 2014, he married Rebecca Szews at St. Florian’s Catholic Church in Hatley. Together, they built a family life that meant more to him than anything else.
Jacob was a devoted father to his two children, Levi and Cain. His obituary highlights the special bond he shared with his son Levi, including their treasured time playing baseball and riding bikes together.
For the last decade, Jacob took pride in owning and operating Onesti Custom Tile. He was known for his strong work ethic and the care he put into providing for his family.
Outside work, Jacob enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially elk hunting, as well as traveling and camping with his family. He was also affectionately known as “the deer skinner,” a nickname that reflected his connection to outdoor pursuits.
His life brought together entrepreneurship, family commitment, and a love of making memories with the people closest to him.
Jacob is survived by his wife, Rebecca; their children, Levi and Cain; his parents, Jim and Jenny Onesti; and his siblings, Josh Onesti and Alyssa Chroge, along with their families.
He is also survived by his parents-in-law, extended relatives, close friends, and beloved pets, Gunnar and Boots. His obituary additionally recognizes his close friend Matt Alwes, who helped him start his business.
Jacob was preceded in death by several relatives, including his maternal grandfather, Johnny Goldsberry, and cousin Casey Duginski.
According to the official obituary, a Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, October 30, 2026, at 1 p.m. at St. Florian’s Catholic Church, 500 Church Lane, Hatley, Wisconsin. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.
Visitation is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church before the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions toward Jacob’s children’s college fund.
Jacob John Onesti’s sudden passing leaves a deep loss for his family, friends, and community. His obituary portrays a man whose greatest accomplishments were not simply professional, but personal: the family he loved, the friendships he maintained, and the everyday moments he shared with those closest to him.
As his loved ones prepare to gather in Hatley to honor his memory, they will carry forward the stories, traditions, and memories that made Jacob an important part of their lives.