James Zagar
Jon was, without any exaggeration, the best human I’ve ever known.
I met Jon several summers ago, while I was working as a firearms instructor one day and we hit it off immediately. I was interested in his work as a tree climber and he was interested in improving his shooting. Jon proposed a knowledge exchange and we went from there. I most certainly benefitted more from our endeavor than Jon did- I learned a new skill, a profession which, while I haven’t used recently, I value and treasure. I got the impression from Jon that he could make friends anywhere. His bright, open personality and stellar character immediately made an impression on me. The kind of guy, who you wanted to be like. So comfortably himself- I thought Jon was the essence of cool. He didn’t need another friend in me, he wanted to be my friend, and I in turn wanted him as a friend. Such a rare, organic experience to have as a grown man.
Jon and I spent nearly everyday of that summer together, working, me learning his trade. I met his wonderful family, and I saw how aligned his whole life was. The love he had for Zoe and their children. These real things that motivate a man like Jon. It seems to me that he really did have this life thing figured out in all the most meaningful ways. I’ll always remember that summer. How grateful I am to have those memories. The shared humor and values that fueled our daily conversations- everything from sports to politics. Jon was/ is one of the very best friends I will have ever had.
It’s taken me some time to write this- I’m still trying to come to terms with a life where I (selfishly) don’t get have my friend Jon in it. His family, and the world of people have suffered the greater loss- he was an ideal to be measured by. I think I don’t really have the words to fully explain the esteem I hold for this man and his memory, but if you knew him, you know what I mean. I’m certain that I am not unique in my feelings about Jon; the way he operated so genuinely in the world. He was an inspiration, worthy of admiration and emulation.
I’m incredibly grateful to have known Jon.
I will miss him for the rest of my own life, and I’ll think about Jon every time I see trees.