I met Jon when we were both working as lawyers with the Nova Scotia Department of Justice. We weren't close friends but, whenever our paths crossed, we talked about running -- how much we enjoyed it, how our training was going, and what races we'd like to do some day. It was Jon who first told me about Chicago. He and his wife Michelle had run it together and really enjoyed it.
Jonathan's home was Fredericton, NB where his folks still live, but when he died of leukemia in December 2007, he was living in Halifax.
He had a degree in engineering, as well as a law degree. He loved music and played piano, guitar, and clarinet. He was active in sports as a player and coach. In particular, he loved basketball, and was an enthusiastic kayaker and long distance runner.
In this photo, Jon is running the National Capital Marathon in Ottawa, Ontario.
Until his death at the age of just 34, Jon inspired family, friends and colleagues with his courage, good humour and determination. For instance, one of his colleagues organized a 5km fundraising run as part of our annual professional development conference. Many of us signed up to make regular blood donations. Other friends paid tribute to him by kayaking across the Bay of Fundy to raise money for leukemia research.
In short, Jonathan was a remarkable guy, whose life is worth remembering and celebrating. I'm glad to be doing my part to see that happens. We miss you, Jon!
