Linneus, Maine - Jacob Peter Mathieu, lovingly known as Jake, passed away on July 10, 2026, at the age of 38. Born January 31, 1988, in Brunswick, Maine, Jake was the beloved son of Toni Marie Hetherington and the late Erik Scott Mathieu.

He graduated from Houlton High School and was known for his generous heart, unforgettable sense of humor, and ability to make everyone around him feel welcome. No matter what kind of day he was having, Jake could brighten a room simply by walking through the door. His playful personality, quick wit, and genuine compassion left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Wherever Jake went, there was laughter, a little bit of shenanigans, and memories that would be shared for years to come.

Like many families, his life was touched by the disease of addiction. Jake faced that battle with courage and determination. He sought help and was proud to graduate from His Mansion Ministries in Deering, New Hampshire - an accomplishment that reflected his strength, resilience, and hope for a brighter future. Although struggle with addiction occasionally came and went in his life, it never defined the man he was. He was so much more than the struggles he faced. Jake's family shares this part of his story because addiction thrives in silence. They hope that by speaking openly, they can replace stigma with compassion, encourage honest conversations, and remind anyone who is struggling that recovery is possible and hope is never out of reach.

Having been raised by a single mom and burying his father at the young age of 2 months old Jacob spent his childhood vacations and time with his mother, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and close family and friends. Throughout his lifetime he found his greatest happiness in time spent with the people he loved. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, snowmobiles, swimming, music, boating at Nickerson Lake, fishing, kayaking with his Mammie, spending time at camp with his Granddad, working on dirt bikes and snowmobiles. Whether gathered around a table, sitting around a campfire, or simply sharing stories, Jake treasured every moment with family and friends.

Jacob later had two younger brothers, Chandler and Chase, and was also able to experience the greatest gift of his own son, Knowell. The experiences they had are far too many to mention in a short obituary. His biggest concern was knowing despite his issues everyone knew how much love he had for them. He had a generous spirit and never hesitated to lend a helping hand, offer encouragement, or make someone laugh when they needed it most.

Jake was one of the founders of the County Jeep Riders of Hope, where he loved exploring the trails with his mom, son, brothers, special friend, Amanda, and countless others. Muddy Jeeps, camping, back roads, laughter, music, get-togethers with campfires, food and unforgettable adventures became some of his most cherished memories. One of his favorite songs was 'Life's Been Good' by Joe Walsh, and favorite band was Dave Matthews and Joe Cocker - a fitting reflection of his adventurous spirit and appreciation for life's simple joys.

Above all else, Jake was a devoted father to his son, Knowell Mathieu. Being Knowell's dad was one of the greatest joys of his life. He loved his son unconditionally and treasured every moment they shared. That love will continue to live on through Knowell and in the countless memories they created together.

Jake carried heartaches that many never fully saw. The loss of his Dad he never knew, many friends, 6 month old baby, Camio, and beloved Granddad, Richard Sherwood, left a profound emptiness in his heart. Those closest to him saw how deeply he grieved those losses. His family finds comfort in believing that they were there to welcome him home with open arms. Though their hearts are broken, they find peace in knowing Jake is finally free from the burdens he carried for so long.

Jake is survived by his loving mother, Toni Marie Hetherington; his stepfather, William Hetherington; his beloved son, Knowell Mathieu; his brothers, Chandler Hetherington and Chase Hetherington; his mammie, Jerrianne Sherwood; his great-aunt, Bonnie Hastey; his uncle, Richard Sherwood; his aunt, Amy Sherwood; his cousins Troy Hastey, Jesse James Sherwood and many other aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who we pray will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his father, Erik Scott Mathieu, and his beloved grandfather, Richard Sherwood.

Those who knew Jake will remember far more than the hardships he endured. They will remember the little boy who grew into a man with an adventurous soul, the father who adored his son, the comedian who laughed with his brothers, the family member who could always make everyone laugh, and the friend who never hesitated to help someone in need. They will remember muddy Jeep rides, fishing trips, fundraisers, family gatherings, and conversations that often lasted long into the night. Most of all, they hope they will remember a smile that could brighten the darkest day, unbelievable eyelashes and a heart that loved more deeply than he ever realized. If Jake's story encourages even one person to seek help, or one family to choose compassion over judgment, his legacy will continue. Jake's absence leaves a space that can never be filled.

Jacob believed "the Bible was the living word and his faith ran deep he believed that everyone has purpose. He always said "they are good people. A cup is never really half full or half empty it is to be valued for its sheer ability to be present and filled up. You can have anything you want but to accomplish and beat addiction it must come with faith and hope that comes from deep within the individual so people fighting to help others be patient and encourage them but remember you cannot do it for them."

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of Jake's life at Bowers Funeral Home, 10 Water St., Houlton, on Thursday, July 16, 2026, with calling hours from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. and a graveside funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. at Evergreen Cemetery. Online memories and condolences can be shared at bowersfuneral.com.

The moon and the night don't explain themselves. They simply meet as they are. They become heaven, no matter where I am remember, we're all looking at the same moon, just a different perspective. Once in a while you get shown the light, we all shine on like the moon and the stars and the sun. Shine on you crazy diamonds. Wish you were here. See you again someday. Till then, laugh often, smile much, enjoy the journey and have fun friends. Remember me in the good times!

Love, Jake