Johnathan Daniel Truax

June 19th, 1992 - September 9, 2023

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Johnathan Daniel Truax, a beloved son, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, partner, and a beautiful human being. On September 9th, 2023, Johnathan passed away following a catastrophic hemorrhagic stroke, which he suffered on September 3rd. It was completely unexpected. He was surrounded by his loving and adoring family until his final hours. He was only 31 years old.

Johnathan was born on June 19th, 1992, in Modesto, CA. He was the son of Maciej and Jennifer Ossowski, and Thomas Truax. He was raised in Merced and attended Our Lady of Mercy School, Saint Paul Lutheran School, and Merced High School. He then relocated to his dream city, where he attended The University of San Francisco and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. During that time Johnathan also dedicated himself to charitable work, volunteering for organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Warm Wishes, and Child Hope International. His last selfless act was when he became a heroic organ donor, and gave the gift of life to four people who will always have a part of Johnathan with them.

To say Johnathan was bigger than life is an understatement. He had a gift for making the people closest to him feel valued and loved. He was exuberant, generous, and exuded a radiant and flamboyant energy. Johnathan’s passion for travel took him to far-flung corners of the world. However, he felt most at home in San Francisco, a city which welcomed and guided him towards discovering his authentic self.

Johnathan was incredibly close to his family, especially his mother with whom he shared a most beautiful bond. An incredible uncle to his adoring nieces and nephews - Bella, Alexis, Julian, Olivia and Thomas - Johnathan was their champion and always set aside precious time to spend with them. Johnathan leaves behind the following family members: his mother, Jennifer Ossowski, his fathers, Maciej Ossowski and Thomas Truax, his beloved grandmother, Maggie Salles, his siblings, Jessica Peel, Jeffrey Truax and his wife Ana, Adam Ossowski and his wife Hannah, and Marcin Ossowski, as well as many more loving family and friends.

The following are a series of events celebrating Johnathan’s life - all are welcome to attend (see below for address information):

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 6, 2023 from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. with Recitation of the rosary beginning at 4:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church 459 West 21st Street Merced, CA. After the rosary there will be a gathering with hors d’oeuvres and refreshments held at the Mansion House, 455 West 20th Street Merced, CA.

The Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Winton Cemetery District, 7651 Almond Avenue Winton, CA. After the burial there will be a Celebration of Life with lunch, drinks, and video stories about Johnathan at Ravello’s Event Center, 560 West 18th Street Merced, CA.

In accordance with Johnathan’s wishes, he always envisioned his life celebration as a joyous and vibrant occasion, therefore we kindly request that you refrain from wearing black.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Wishes and Dreams, benefitting the Make-a-Wish Foundation, 1120 Commerce Avenue, PMB 240, Atwater, CA 95301 or to Our Lady of Mercy School (www.olmlancers.com/support-olm-school), in honor of Johnathan’s memory.

Johnathan, you were the cornerstone of our family and a bright beacon of light in our lives; your sudden absence leaves an emptiness that can never be filled. We love you beyond words and will carry your memory with us always. Until we meet again, rest in peace- our beloved, sweet Johnny.

With Gratitude,

The Ossowski and Truax Families