Freshman year at The University of South Dakota, Jacob noticed Marina during their English class and around campus. He called her, "that cute Pi Phi," to his friends and soon asked her for help to recall a homework assignment. The school year was coming to an end and they had spent almost every night together working on homework, sharing about their family and friends, going on walks around Vermillion, listening to music, and shooting pool during late nights in the dorms. On May 22nd 2016, Jacob asked Marina to be his girlfriend, on a bridge outside of town. That bridge, became their spot to escape the hectic life of school, share memories, and reflect.

May 23rd, 2021 Jacob and Marina were celebrating their five year anniversary in their new home town, Omaha. They had brunch and went to the Lauritzen Gardens. There they enjoyed the tropical greenhouse, rose garden, gazebo by the pond, and the peony garden... Jacob and Marina were happy reminiscing on their five years of accomplishments and memories. In the peony garden, Jacob pointed out a beautiful red peony, and said, "Here's a memory you will never forget," then got down on one knee, "Marina Margaret, will you spend the rest of your life with me?" Joyful tears poured as they shared the happy news with their family and friends. They went to a steakhouse supper that night where they got all dressed up and celebrated their five years, and the years to come.