The 24-year-old disappeared on August 15 and his torso was found near Myrtle Park on August 19.

More than 500 people filled the Tailrace Centre to pay tribute to the 24-year-old’s life. 

With the family’s permission, The Examiner attended the funeral. 

Fierce messages of choosing life and being the change were weaved throughout the service. 

In a speech written by the 24-year-old’s mother Claudette, she called on family and friends to “make choices that won’t put your loved ones in a place like this”.

Tailrace Centre community church senior pastor Tim O’Neill said people made lots of decisions every day, but some decisions we make would have consequences over days, weeks and years to come. 

“Jake’s mother wanted his friends to understand that they had the opportunity to make decisions to potentially change their lives,” Mr O’Neill said.

“It has been a terrible time for his family … the manner of his death meant they haven’t been able to find closure.”

The love story of Mr Anderson-Brettner and his fiance Katlyn was also shared at the service. 

Holding back tears, Katlyn described her fiance as “the one who made my heart race and hands shake”. 

“I know as soulmates we will be together again,” she said

Family and friends remembered Mr Anderson-Brettner for his loyalty, laughter and love of Katlyn.