I honestly keep coming back to this page to acknowledge all the people that surrounded Jonathan. He was such a loved person. I’m sure a lot of you don’t know me but Jon would call me his sister for some time. You know the classic hang out everyday life style. Mrs. Wernke if you read this, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Don’t forget that he is such a happy person and we should strive to be like him. I hope you’re doing well. 

This photo was taken at the graduation party for Gracie Simons-Massey, Paul Vejraska, and Jamin Wright in 2017.  Good times with a very good friend!

Even though we didn't keep in touch and we only knew Jonathan as a small child, the service rekindled memories of Jonathan following his brothers at field trips with his cap on. He was the person he became because he had many examples...You become the people you love and he loved his God, Family and Friends. Thoughts and Prayers sent your way as you travel this path of loss. The service was a wonderful tribute to Jonathan and his family.

We knew Jonathan only as a small child, wearing his cap, keeping up with his older brothers on field trips, outings,...he was the center of attention most of the time because of his age difference with the other students on the outing.  His family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers. The service was a wonderful tribute to his short but active life. He loved much and was loved by many, which is a tribute to his parents also. 

Even though it was only my second time meeting Johnny on the night of the accident, I instantly knew that his life revolved around Christ and that his heart was as big as his hands; and he had REALLY large hands! I remember meeting him for the first time at game night (nearly needing two hands to match his firm vice of a handshake!) as he shook my hand and asked me genuine questions about my life. He lived life to the fullest in every way; from his multiple entrepreneurship endeavors to the far-reaching community that grew and flourished wherever he went.  
We instantly connected due to our mutual love of canyoneering and enjoying God's creation by exploring the desert. Even though being there that night was a devastating experience, I think that Johnny would want us all to continue living life to the fullest. Johnathan left a huge impact on my life and his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he influenced.  We miss you dearly, Johnny. I'm so thankful we will see you again. 

I think this is a photo of one of Jonathan's favorite settings. Outside, with friends, sipping hot cocoa.

Jonathan packs in everyday of his life with joy and passion. He lives his life to the fullest more than most people ever will and he always finds a way to share his happiness with others. 
Frisbee, pickleball, boardgames will never be the same with out him. Miss you buddy, thanks for the hug goodbye from before I left for Nepal.

We will miss seeing you daily @ Safeway. You were one of a kind, always smiling and so happy. God bless your family, Rest In Peace Jonathan. 


After only a few visits with Jon, I just wanted to "keep him". I'm slowly giving him back to God now, but it is through tears and a heavy heart. May you all be healed by that "peace which surpasseth all understanding." Some day we will all share that unbroken joy which was so palpable in this loveable young man.

We remember Jonathan as a beautiful baby so welcomed by his parents and brother's.  We reconnected with Jonathan at Chow Down and he remembered us from his childhood. He would always spend time talking with us about our life and shared about his life and plans. Jonathan was  such an example of a caring and kind young man that cared about people and animals.  He will be greatly missed. Our hearts are so saddened for his parents, brother's , friend's and family for the loss of Jonathan in this life.  God bless, Robert and Rhonda Dunlap

Jonathan was the son of Mark and Kitty who were fellow homeschoolers and friends. I remember when he was born. 

Over the years, I’d see one or the other of them occasionally around town and then he turned up as a bagger at Safeway. He was such a bright and personable young man and as we talked, he made the connection and I realized who he was, little Jonathan, but grown up. What a beautiful young man he was. 

Every time I saw Jonathan I was reminded of the verse in John 1:4, “ in him was life and that life was the light of men”. 

That Light of men, the Holy Spirit , really just shone out of Jonathan and I used to think how much good he would do in the world, just by letting it shine for all to see and be effected by.

I’m  heartbroken over this loss for Mark and Kitty, Kevin and Matthew and all his friends and family and the whole rest of the world . 

Our sincerest condolences and prayers.

The Grimes family, Paul and Robyn, Linda, Jane and Andy. 




. 

Words can't describe the joy Jon could bring into a room. He was like a bright flame with a smile. His ambition and passion for life was impossible not to notice, but he always had a way of making you feel just as important. 
Jon, you'll be so deeply missed. 

Jonny was a ray of light. He had the biggest smile and the most contagious laugh. He embodied love and made everyone around him smile.  He is going to be missed deeply by many.  

Jon made you feel joyful just by being in his presence. It was easy to see he was friends with Jesus.  The world is forever changed by the life Jon lived, and he is greatly missed. Thank you dear Wernke family for the love and faith you raised Jon with and share with all who know you.  Our hearts are with you.
1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

We are deeply saddened by Jonathan’s sudden passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all. Charles was fortunate to see Jonathan a few times in Grand Junction over the past years as he grew into a caring young man. It was a delight seeing him at our daughter Tori’s wedding. He will be sorely missed. Love to all, Charles and Victoria Caldwell

Jonathan was always a pleasure to be around as a kid. I remember bringing over my crew to climb the trees or swing in the back yard. He was always kind to my kids, who were all younger, exemplifying compassion, patience, and grace. What a testimony his life was. 

I remember playing board games at his house,  exploring in the woods called the gully, and fishing with Jonathan. He was an amazing person and friend. Miss you dearly Jonathan!

Jon was such a huge part of my childhood and I think I’m always going to remember him walking around the house with his quail, Nemo, in his hair like it was no big deal. He was such an amazing person and I’m so blessed to have had him in my life. 

Jon once gave me this quote from a Rainer Maria Rilke poem, "Let everything happen to you: beauty and terror. Just keep going. No feeling is final." I think these words encapsulate the way he lived -- an undaunted adventurer who relished life and faced whatever came with courage and hope. From spontaneous night hikes to whimsical river floats, I will miss Jon's company and delightful laugh. I send my prayers, love, and gratitude to him and his family. 

I will always remember Jonathan’s infectious laughter and joy! His smile literally took over his whole face and just made you want to laugh right along with him. :)

Jonathan's warmth, infectious positivity, insatiable curiosity, intelligence, respectfulness, and sense of humor will be deeply missed. With heartfelt empathy, we send our love and prayers. 

Messy hair and all, this photo was in Bryce Canyon, taken right after we watched the sun rise. No one else I’d rather share lukewarm  chai tea and business ideas with in the middle of the desert. Love you always Jon. 

Jonathan was a joy to be around.  His enthusiasm for life and for Jesus could be seen by all of us, and he will be greatly missed.  His life imprinted many many people with his caring spirit and gentle speech.

OBITUARY

Jonathan Douglas Wernke

February 13, 2003 – April 20, 2022

Martin Mortuary

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