Jacob “Jake” Anthony Lesnick

In Loving Memory 

Jacob “Jake” Anthony Lesnick 

Jacob “Jake” Anthony Lesnick, age 79, of Little Canada, Minnesota, passed away on June 7, 2026. 

Jake was a master of his trade and a respected fixture in the White Bear Lake community, where he owned and operated Jake’s Quality Auto. What began as a love of engines grew into a thriving, well-earned reputation built on honest work and the kind of trust that kept customers coming back for years. He took enormous pride in his shop, which remains a family legacy today, now run by his son Brad. 

Jake’s passion for cars never stopped at the garage door. He was a devoted drag racer, never happier than when he was behind the wheel of his beloved yellow ‘69 Camaro. He spent his summers at Brainerd International Raceway and Rock Falls Raceway, wherethe rush of the track and smell of tire burnouts were among his greatest joys. 

When he wasn’t racing, Jake was a gun collector and a competitive target shooter. He was meticulous about his craft; he even manufactured and sold his own ammunition. This is another example of the care and perfectionism he brought to everything he did. 

Jake is survived by his loving wife, Mary Jo Lesnick; his children, Lisa Lesnick, Michelle Vadnais, Brenda Tushaus, and Brad (Kory) Lesnick; his grandchildren, Tara (Sylvester) Scott, Jacob Lesnick, Zachary Tushaus, and Samuel Tushaus; his great-grandchildren, Aubrie, Brayden, Everly, and Leilanli; and his brother, Michael Lesnick.

Jake will be remembered for his craftsmanship and his competitive spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of strong work ethic, fast cars, and a life lived full throttle. 

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, June 26th, at Roseville Memorial Chapel, 2245 Hamline Ave N., Roseville, MN 55113. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. For those who wish to send flowers, the family lovingly asks that you consider yellow blooms, in honor of Jake’s favorite color and the color of his cherished 1969 Camaro. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.