WOODWARD — The Woodward-Granger High School Auditorium was a scene of sadness and reflection but also one of laughs, smiles and warm memories Wednesday as hundreds of well-wishers attended the visitation service for Drew Jacobson.
The 16-year old W-G junior succumbed to acute intensive heart failure at 7:15 a.m. Monday after collapsing at a basketball practice Dec. 2. An exact cause of death has yet to be announced.
Floral displays from numerous schools, football teams, families and friends lined the edge of the stage, where the family greeted friends, Drew’s classmates and others simply wishing to express their sympathy.
At one point the line stretched outside the auditorium and filled two hallways, with some visitors reporting they waited at least an hour in line to pass the open casket and speak briefly with Drew’s immediate family. None complained, and all spoke the praises of a promising young man with a bright future ahead of him.
Football teammates of Drew, who wore his No. 58 jersey, placed “Hawks” stickers on the inside of the casket lid in memory of their friend.
An additional visitation period will be held from 9-11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 10 at the W-G gym, with the funeral service to begin at 11 a.m.
Drew’s favorite color was red, and, as a show of their love, his junior classmates will all wear red bow ties Thursday. W-G will host Van Meter Friday in a boys/girls basketball set, with fans of both schools urged to wear red. Red bow ties will be available for purchase for $2 or any other level of donation at the game.
