Johnstown, PA Native and Former California University of Pennsylvania Standout Linebacker, Jacob ‘Jake’ Ardary, Passes Away, Leaving Behind Parents James and Mirinda and Family

Jake Ardary's family has yet to provide details about his funeral and memorial services.

October 14, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 14, 2026

Jacob ‘Jake’ Ardary, an amazing athlete and firefighter, passed away on Monday, October 13, 2026, at an untimely age, leaving his family and loved ones devastated.

While the actual cause and manner of Jake Ardary’s untimely death have not yet been disclosed, one of his friends took to social media to share the news of his passing.

Born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to parents James ‘Jim’ Ardary and Mirinda Watson Dziabo, Jake touched the lives of many with his amazing athletic skills and his service to the community as a brave firefighter.

Jake Ardary began his athletic career at Bishop McCort High School, where he excelled in multiple sports, including football, wrestling, and track & field.

Standing 6’0” and wearing jersey number 46, as MLB and TE in the varsity football team, the Crushers, and led his team in several victories throughout his tenure.

He recorded 356 total tackles in his high school and was named SAFCA Defensive MVP as both a junior and senior, recieved all-conference honors twice, and earned all-area laurels as a senior.

Jake also briefly played for Hollidaysburg High School’s Boys Varsity football team and Richland High School’s Boys Varsity Wrestling and football teams.

Ardary further continued his athletic career while attending California University of Pennsylvania, where he played for the Men’s football team, the Vulcans.

Late Jake Ardary Won Several Honorable Titles Throughout His Collegiate Athletic Career

Throughout his tenure at California University of Pennsylvania,won the hearts of many with his remarkable performance as a standout football player, achieving several honorable titles.

During his freshman year, Jacob ‘Jake’ played as a linebacker and appeared in three games as a reserve. He made his college debut against Lock Haven and received the D2AFA Academic Achievement Award in 2026.

He also earned PSAC Scholar-Athlete status in 2026 and 2026 and won several other honorable titles.

Although Jake didn’t pursue his football career professionally, he continued to win the hearts of many as an amazing wrestler, showcasing his talent at the NAGA Pittsburgh Grappling Tournament and winning numerous medals. He also excelled in Jiu-Jitsu.

Additionally, Jake Ardary was pursuing his career as a firefighter and was serving in Frederick County, Maryland.

His indefinable athletic journey and role as a great firefighter will always be remembered.

In addition to his parents, Mirinda and James ‘Jim’, Jake Ardary is survived by his fiancée, Raquel Imler; sister, Andrea Reese; brother-in-law; nephew; grandparents; uncles; aunts; cousins; and the entire family.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• Jake Ardary’s father, Jim Ardary, has been serving as a police sergeant at Stonycreek Township since 2004.
• His mother, Mirinda Dziabo, studied Nursing at Mt. Aloysius and is happily married to Andy Dziabo.
• Jake earned his Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from California University of Pennsylvania.

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Suruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.

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