Troy Brien Jacobson

June 25, 1964 – August 10, 2026

"I found my way home... It is peaceful here. Just the quiet kind of light where pain can no longer find me. I'm safe and held by a calm I never understood while I was there."

Troy was born in Chisago Lakes, Minnesota. He spent his early years living in Wisconsin, Denver CO, Naples FL, Lubbock TX, Long Beach CA Detroit Lakes MN, MT. Vernen WA, Eugene OR and North Dakota before making Fargo his home for most of his adult life.

Throughout his life, Troy wore many hats. He graduated from WTCT in Waukesha with a degree in Culinary Arts, a skill he proudly used throughout his career. He worked in the restaurant industry for many years and especially loved bringing people together.

Whether it was a holiday meal, backyard cookout or family gathering, Troy found joy in cooking and sharing good food with those he loved.

Never one to shy away from learning something new, Troy also built a career in the housing industry. He developed skills in roofing, drywall, siding, flooring, masonry, foundation preparation, and framing, taking pride in working with his hands and creating something that would last.

One of Troy's most thoughtful traditions was creating handmade greeting cards for family and friends. He remembered every birthday and holiday, never missing an opportunity to let someone know they were loved and remembered.

Music was woven into the fabric of Troy's life. He never outgrew the "good old rock and roll" of his youth. Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Disturbed, Pink Floyd, Black Sabbath, and Blind Faith were among his favorites. Their music filled his home, their posters covered his walls, and the band t-shirts he wore reflected a lifelong passion that never faded. He also enjoyed relaxing with a cold beer while his favorite songs played in the background.

Of all the roles he cherished, being "Grandpa" was among his greatest joys. He loved spending time with his grandchildren: Ivan, Karissa, Axel, Camden, Kayden, Adeline, Kinsley, and Kaiser. Troy is lovingly remembered by his sons, Andrew Jacobson-Sayler and Alex Jacobson; his daughter, Danielle Vilas; his mother, Snow Jacobson of Greenfield, Wisconsin; his sisters, Jodi (Peter) Tarutis of Menifee, California, and Kelly (William) Jopek of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Douglas Jacobson, and his maternal and fraternal grandparents as well as the mother of his children, Cheryl Leiava Vilas.

Troy faced a long and courageous battle with cancer. Through it all, he found reasons to smile. One of his proudest moments was collecting his chemotherapy bottles after each treatment-a small but meaningful reminder of every battle he fought. One of his hardest losses was saying goodbye to his long blond hair. His life was often chaotic, colorful, and uniquely his own, and those who knew him will remember him for exactly that.

We hope you have found your peace in a place where pain no longer exists, where your spirit runs free, and where your heart is forever at rest. You will always be loved, always be remembered, and forever be missed.

"Yortburger." "Troyco."

Tribute Song: "Can't Find My Way Home"- Blind Faith

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the family would be sincerely appreciated.

A very special and heartfelt thank you to # 1 Son Andy Mosh, Mr. Patrick McConihay and Crystal Chirico who lovingly cared for Troy during his final days.

A celebration of Troy’s life will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. with a visitation one hour before the service at Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead, MN.