Berlin F. 'Jake' Caple, 88, of Finksburg, died Monday, May 8, 2017 at his residence in Finksburg. Born July 19, 1928 in Reese, MD, he was the only son of the late Edna B. (Staub) Caple and Berlin F. Caple.

He was a graduate of Westminster High School, class of 1946. After high school he worked for Shilling Brothers Cannery Co. on Bethel Rd as a driver, Jameson-Barnsley Dodge-Plymouth, Warner Motor Sales which became Bare Truck Center and Race Motor Sales which became RMS for 20 years where he retired. After retirement he worked as a driver for Raloid Corp.

He was the last surviving charter member of Reese and Community Volunteer Fire Company, which started in his mother’s garage in 1948. He held numerous elected and appointed positions that included First Lt. from 1954-1957, Assistant Chief from 1958-1968 and 1981-1983 and Chief from 1969-1980.

Jake’s greatest accomplishment in life was his commitment to Reese and Community Volunteer Fire Company and safety. At age 16 he and his two friends bought a fire engine and housed it in his mother’s garage and then devoted the next 70 years to making it the great place it is today.

He is survived by niece, Jeane Blizzard and husband Carl of Finksburg, whom he resided with, nephews Richard Graham and wife Gail of Westminster and Jeff Graham and wife Patty of Taneytown and foster sister Eva Yingling. Also survived by numerous great-nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by sisters Theresa Halter and Vivian Reaver, a niece Patricia Brooks and companion Betty Sutphin.

The family will receive friends on Friday, May 12, 2017 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the social hall of the Reese and Community Volunteer Fire Company, 1745 Baltimore Blvd., Westminster, MD 21157, where a Fire Company Memorial Service will be held at 8 p.m.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 13, 2017 at 10 a.m. at the Reese and Community Volunteer Fire Company with Deacon Charles Barnhart, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow at Carrollton Church of God Cemetery in Finksburg.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to the Reese & Community Volunteer Fire Company.