Born Jesse Jay Ekker on May 1, 1996 to Jennifer Ann Collins Powell and Joshua Leon Ekker. Jesse was very loved by so many people. His absence on this earth will be felt by so many, leaving a hole that cannot be filled by anything other than amazing memories and through his family, especially his wife Mercedes and his cherished daughter Lauryn. 

Jesse spent his youth playing all sports. He was on the High school wrestling team and loved baseball and football among other things. After graduating from Carbon High School in 2014, Jesse married his high school love Mercedez on July 11, 2015. Together they brought their daughter Lauryn into the world in May of 2019. Jesse was an amazing husband and father and loved his girls very much. 

Jesse worked as a coal miner and was very good at his job, making dozens of forever friendships along the way. He died while in Colorado on February 25, 2025. He will be deeply missed for his ability to make others feel special and important in his life. 

He is survived by his wife Mercedez Collins, his daughter Lauryn, his mom Jennifer Ann Collins Powell, his dad Joshua Leon Ekker, brothers Tyler, Alex, Brayden, Joshy, and Grayson, his sisters Hailee, Therea, Faith, and Destiny, his Uncle Mikey, Uncle Jake, Aunt Heidi, and Aunt Gloria.

Preceded in death by Grandma Trina, Grandma Deon, Grandma Linda, and Lil sister Tylar

A Miner s Prayer - When my hard task on earth is done, God give me time to loaf in the sun; Loaf in the sun on a cool, green hill, where the breath of freedom lingers still; Lingers still to caress my face, as I climb to the highest place; Highest place where content I’ll stay, praising Thee, Lord for each grand new day. For the carefree rest I’ve never known, grant me a few years to call my own; Call my own and, my sins forgiving, strength enough to enjoy their living.There living enjoy with greater zest. Because I have worked and earned my rest; early me rest and a place in the sun, providing You find my work well done.