My friend and I met Jon in the US back in 1998 and we kept in touch for a while after we returned to the UK.   I often thought about him when reminiscing about that trip in '98.  I don't know what prompted me to look him up just now, but I'm very saddened to learn of his passing.   It was a pleasure to have known him, even for a short time.

I knew Jon for many years as we were in grade school together, graduating in the same class at West Forsyth in 1987.  Just a few years ago, we had some casual conversations on Facebook, which was a cool way to reconnect.  I'm really sorry to hear of his passing.  I always thought that Jon was a really interesting, unique person and am glad to have known him.  I want to express my deepest sympathies to his family.

Jon and I had just started talking again about a year ago. Probably the best conversation we've ever had... getting to know each other again. This hit me a little harder because of that but, I'm glad I got to know him better. So sorry, to his  friends and family during this time. Love and light to you all.

I just found this sad new. I went to high school with Jon and we became good friends. As well got older we stayed in touched and followed each others lives. My last great memory was grilling out with Chad Fann and Jon being his usual silly goofy self. It was a great day. My two daughters love art and Jon set down with each of them and taught them how to do a unique sketch. They both still have that sketch in a keepsake box. You will so lovingly missed and always remembered. Sending my condolences, love, and prayers to his daughter Kennedy and all his other family and friends. ❤

In this crazy fast paced world it is rare to connect with another human being on a meaningful level. We were neighborhood kids together; with sister Sharon and tiny brother, Scott. Then moves happened, for us all; and we lost touch. But alas; years later we reconnected. And shared many happy and sad life’s lessons. We were one year away from getting to finally be in each others presence. Now. I have out texts, IMs and Facebook posts to share. Our phone calls are only in my mind. I will miss you. So very much. TAKE HOLD. You taught me this. I love you forever.

I hate to learn of Jon's passing. Jon O, as I came to know him, and I worked on several high-profile projects for an internet firm (iXL) in the 90s. Jon O was a talented designer and a good guy. Gone too soon.

I'll miss JonO. I met him thru his brother (and my best friend), Scott, in a smelly, hot, off-campus gym at ECU. I think the first thing he said to me after "sup?" on introduction was "what are you look'n at?!". Funny now, but at the time I had already heard the legend of when he got a tooth pulled without anesthesia, so, well, you can imagine what I was thinking. By the end of the it, we were drinking his beers, and he was telling jokes in his usual sarcastic dry wit. That said, of all the complicated facets that made Jon so uniquely him, the one constant was always how deeply he loved those he cared about. 

Just one example. Years ago, a short discussion we had for a project we were working on for Scott, turned into a longer conversation about life. Things we were each going thru, what we wanted out of life etc. The most important thing he felt he needed to convey, and I will never forget, was how much he loved his daughter, Kennedy. How much she meant to him, and what a bright, beautiful, person he knew her to be. It was soft, sincere, and kind in a way I very rarely hear even from people I know well. It was also the last time we talked on the phone, and it's how I'll always remember him.

Rest in peace in Jon.

I first met Jon in 1989, he has always been a good friend.   Haven’t seen him in many years.  He always spoke and bragged on Kennedy.  My thoughts and prayers are with his sweet daughter, his mom, sister and many many friends.  Rest in peace Jon O.

I first met Jon back in college at ECU as I was getting to know his brother, Scott. I only saw Jon periodically over the years but he was always a nice, funny, intelligent, and thoughtful guy whenever I had the pleasure of hanging out with him. He was also an amazingly talented artist. Still can't believe he's gone. Godspeed Jon, we all miss you very much.

So sorry to hear this. Jon was a good friend for many years to my brother Mack and they worked together alot. He was a very good person. My thoughts and prayers are with his family ❤️

Jon O  and I have been friends for 40 some years since we were kids just getting our drivers license, he is a great guy and will be missed. We even spent some years down in Greenville, North Carolina at old ECU where Jon went to college! His family members are awesome. he always spoke very highly of his daughter Kennedy, and loved her very much rest in peace brother.
       Greg Hill (Lums)

Hey this is Zoe , Gareths sister. I just found out about jon I am so sorry.  I assume I missed the funeral. If not I wanted to attend. Again I'll be praying for you and I'm sorry for your loss.

Wow.. Kind of knocked the wind out of me with this news.. I met Jon at West Forsyth back in 1988.. He was an instant friend and still was up until now..
He drove my school bus for a while! That was cool! He used to come to all of our parties at Patton Stables and would crack us up trying to ride the horses with no saddle! I have so many memories of you Jon.. you will definitely be missed my friend.. Until we meet again ❤️

I met Jon at West when I moved from Florida. We all ran in the same circles and we became friends. He always had your back and was a great guy! You always knew where you stood with him and he’d do anything for you! I haven’t seen him in many years and it saddens me to hear this… Godspeed my friend!

I hated hearing this news.  I hadn't seen him in a few years but he could always make you laugh.  He had certainly not had an easy life but there was always a lot of optimism.  He was a friend to many.

Jon was my good friend for close to 35 years.  My brother had his flaws but was always there as a friend.  When he was in Mt. Airy he would always stop and see my mom and spend time with her.  And that meant the world to me.  I will miss him terribly.  I hope Ms. Ostrander, Kennedy,  Scott, and Sharon are handling this the best they can.  And please know if needed I am always a call or text away.  

Chad Fann

OBITUARY

Jon Francis Ostrander

October 9, 1968 – September 22, 2023

Frank Vogler & Sons

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