Jon Gregory Kirschner

Died 02/05/2025 Dunedin FL

Jon was larger than life. His proudest accomplishment was his family.

He graduated from Cathedral Academy in 1964.

Active Service in The US Navy during the Vietnam War as the First Navy Rescue Swimmer

Graduated from Onondaga Community College in 1970

Graduated from Syracuse University as an English major in 1980

He started his career at Carrier Corporation where he became an industrial engineer. In addition, he owned Tobin’s, where he was able to enjoy his love for crafting and refinishing furniture.

Jon moved on to work for the federal government residing in both Washington DC and Japan. His career took him around the world where he had the opportunity to immerse himself in many cultures.

In 2002, Jon was awarded multiple letters of commendation for his outstanding work with the Defense Logistics Crisis Action Team following 9/11, Operation Enduring Freedom.

He received the Civilian Career Service Award medal from The Department of Defense for 23 years of distinguished service. Jon was also awarded a medal for Meritorious Civilian Service from the Defense Contract Management Agency. During his tenure he received a multitude of service awards from the Defense Logistics Agency. The American flag was flow over the US Capital on May 22, 2003 in Jon’s honor, at the request of Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton to celebrate his retirement from Government Service.

Jon enjoyed sharing his experiences and his life lessons through stories. He was an accomplished writer publishing two books called, The Alchemist’s Children, and Our Journeys.

His life long love of learning about astronomy, history, and nature was a huge inspiration to both his children and his grandchildren. One of Jon’s favorite places on earth was his cottage on White Lake in the Adirondack Mountains. He created this unique sanctuary for himself and his family and friends to relax, explore and enjoy life together, where love and laughter flourished.

Jon was the son of Robert Kirschner and May (Lockwood) Kirschner

Brother to Carole (Carmen) Barbato and Pamela Tee

Father to Michelle Kravetz and Karin (Guy) Falcone

Grandfather to Danielle Kravetz, Jonathan Kravetz, Thomas Kravetz, Penelope Falcone, and Sierra Falcone

Great Grandfather to Landon and Gray Kravetz

Services will be held at 12pm on February 23, 2025 at Sylvan Abbey 2853 Sunset Point Rd Clearwater, FL 33759

Jon’s ashes will be interred the following day at 12:30pm at Bay Pines Veterans Cemetery in St. Petersburg FL.

Because Jon felt most at home in the woods, the family is requesting that in lieu of flowers, you plant a tree in his memory. Thetreesremember.com (scroll for direct link)

Kind condolences may be offered in the "Add a Memory" section below.