We Remember

JESSKE, Jonathan Nicolas

September 25, 1984 — November 26, 2023

It is with breaking hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of our dear son, brother, uncle, and cousin on November 26, 2023. Jonathan Nicolas Jesske “Jonny” was born to Pennie Wilson of Clan Gisgaast (Fireweed); House Gutgwinuxws in Prince Rupert, BC on September 25, 1984.  He came to live with the Jesske family on December 21, 1986. There he joined his brothers, Scott and Barry; new parents, Karin and Perry Jesske; and sisters, Kerry and Cory-Lea, in Kelowna, BC.

Jonny or “G” as his brothers lovingly called him stole our hearts right from the beginning. He was a tenacious and energy-filled child who loved to ride around on his Big Wheel, play in the mud, and rough house with his brothers. This energy continued while he slept, and we would often find him under his bed in the morning. Jonny was a happy and healthy little boy. He was funny and loveable, with a mischievous side. Uncle Jon wasn’t much older than his first niece and nephews, and he enjoyed playing with them and teaching them all his tricks.

Jon’s favourite activities included skiing at Big White, swimming with friends, playing kick the can with his brothers on Dilworth Mountain, waterskiing, and family celebrations. When he was older, he loved to kayak on Duck Lake with his dog Maggie and go ice fishing. Jon remained active through high school and also participated in Operation Trackshoes in Victoria, BC.

Jon attended elementary school at Casorso Elementary and Kelowna Christian School, and high school at KLO and Rutland Sr. He went on to attend the PACE program at Okanagan College. It was his desire to eventually run his own business with the help of his brothers. Jon worked at a few places, including Kelowna Cycle and Smittys, but his favourite job was at Auction World. Jonny also volunteered his time working with the elderly and at the Salvation Army. He enjoyed the time he spent with his TIER worker Thor.

As Jon got older, he required help to live independently. He struggled with his mental health and substance use. During this time many outreach workers through John Howard Society, the Gospel Mission, and Metro Church were there to help and care for him, and his family is so thankful for the kindness they showed to Jonny. Many of them have reached out to express their condolences and have shared their stories about the wonderful person he was. 

Jon is survived by his parents, Karin and Perry Jesske; his brothers, Scott Jesske and Barry Jesske; and his sisters, Kerry Vance (Josh) and Cory-Lea Neufeld (Dean); as well as his 5 nephews and 2 nieces; aunts, uncles, and multiple cousins; and extended birth family in Prince Rupert.

Special thanks to the nurses, social workers, and Dr. Vic at the Cardiac ICU at KGH for the dignity and care they provided to Jon in his last moments. We are forever grateful for the time we did get to spend with Jon and are so happy to know he passed with his family around him, comfortable and warm. We love you so much, Jonny. You can rest now. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to the Kelowna Gospel Mission or Metro Church as they were instrumental in providing support for Jon.

Celebration of life to follow in the New Year on Sunday, January 21, 2023, at 1:30 PM at Metro Hub, 1265 Ellis Street, Kelowna, B.C.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

Service
Sunday, January 21, 2023, at 1:30 PM

Location
Metro Hub, 1265 Ellis Street, Kelowna, B.C.

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Kelowna Gospel Mission, or Metro Church Link: kelownagospelmission.ca, metrocommunity.ca

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for JESSKE, Jonathan Nicolas is scheduled for Sunday, January 21, 2023, at 1:30 PM. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

Metro Hub, 1265 Ellis Street, Kelowna, B.C.

1265 Ellis Street, Kelowna, B.C.

Phone:

Special Requests:

None.

Funeral Pointers:

 


Condolences

  • Paul Snook says:
    December 24, 2023 at 3:50 pm

    Karin and Perry
    So sorry to hear of Jonny’s passing. I remember him helping Perry on his calls to our Pharmasave. Regards Paul

    Reply
  • Miho Ogi-Harris says:
    December 27, 2023 at 8:52 pm

    I was so sad to read about Jonathan’s passing. He could not have had a more loving and kind family. You’re in my thoughts and I wish you comfort and peace.

    Reply
  • Amber McKennis says:
    December 28, 2023 at 11:58 pm

    My condolences to the family Jon was a great friend of mine as I went to klo and Rss he was so good to me I have such great fond memories of your son. I am truly sorry for your loss his memories will never die as I learned alot from him when I was.in my teens from him. I thank you for raising him as your own. He was a true good loving friend. MAY GOD BE WITH YOU IN THESE HEALING TIMES and grief . RIP Jon you were loved.

    Reply
  • Justin Dueck says:
    January 6, 2024 at 12:18 pm

    Having just heard news of another dear friend, who passed am sad that scrolling through the obituaries, I have come to find my old youth friends name come up. I remember him well from our Willow Park church youth days and though we didn’t stay in touch over the years, my heart is heavy for his passing and for his family. My deepest condolences to you all. Thankful all in Jesus are made new.

    Reply
  • Pat Richardson says:
    January 8, 2024 at 12:26 pm

    Karin, Perry and Family,
    We are so very saddened to hear of the loss of your Jon. This photo of his smile is how we will remember him. Hugs from Rob, Pat, Jen and Amanda

    Reply
  • Deb Vandal says:
    January 8, 2024 at 9:12 pm

    My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

    Reply

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They took care of me like family.

Judith Szabo

Everything was so organized and pertinent to what we needed. Everyone we met was kind, courteous and very helpful during our emotional and challenging time. Thank you so much.

Heather Mayne

They were so prompt on answering any questions and changing things. They were prepared and respected any religious decisions. The process was so seamless and made easy in such a high stress situation.

Tanya Kohar

In the past 2 years Springfield has helped us through the death of my Mother and my Father. Their response and help allowed us to focus on the remaining family rather than worrying about details of the funeral and all the notifications that are required upon a death.

Terry Eldridge

The atmosphere has been nothing but professional during times of grief.  After the passing of my mother, the staff coached me on the next steps and looked after filling in all the government forms that I needed to sign, which took a huge burden off my mind at the time.

Donald McClure

Everyone was so helpful and kind.  There was no pressure.  They provided exactly what we needed.

Diane Greenwood

From the time I called to the completion of all the services, I received compassionate, attentive and professional care.  There was a sense of caring from each staff member.  I was turning over my Mom to their care and I felt very comfortable with everyone.  I felt heard and never felt pushed into any decision.

Katherine Lewis

I have always found the team at Springfield Funeral Home to be VERY caring, kind, considerate and helpful.  I have and will continue to recommend them to anyone who asks which funeral home would I suggest they use.  No other funeral home I have dealt with even comes close to Springfield Funeral Home.

Ethna Tutt

Right at the onset, I was made very comfortable, there was no pressure.  I was made to feel as if I was the only one they had to serve.

Frances Baum

Everything that was arranged for us was perfect.  Our loved one, husband, father, brother was treated with respect.  Thank you for making this difficult time a little more acceptable via your staff’s obvious caring and respect.

Jacquelene Bluschke