Dear An Marie, Annabelle, and Laura,

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your husband, friend and father. My heart and prayers go out to all of you during this difficult time.

With love,
Patrick, Fran and Gianna

Dear Bill,

Before we met you, you were just a bunch of legendary stories told by the Seniors of M.A.D. However, after finally having the opportunity to meet you this past summer we finally understood why everyone loved you so much. Bill, you are a wonderful and respected person. You treated everyone with warmth and trust and it was always a pleasure to be around you. We just want to say thank you for all the help and advice you've given Dan and I this past year. We were looking forward to paddling, paint-balling, and getting to know you better as a friend. Good bye Bill, thank you for everything...

Our deepest condolences go to you An-Marie, Anabelle, and Lauren, please stay strong during this difficult time.

The world just got a little darker, but Heaven will now shine ever brighter.

In loving memory,

David Lee & Daniel Savage

Dear Bill,

I won't be able to make the wake, but if I could, I would share these words with everyone ...

I have two particularly distinct memories with you and both attest to your innate, incredible warmth.

Montreal International Dragonboat Festival, Women's 500 ... I was so nervous about whether I'd pull my weight on the boat, stay in sync, and finish strong. But during our practice starts, easy paddling to the start line, and that nerve-wracking process of getting the boat straight before the horn goes off ... you were always coaching us all from the back, with the most steady, calm and confident voice. You just knew the words that would help me focus and then stay focused til the end. I was just a newbie, high school paddler at the time, and your warm confidence was exactly what I needed.

I think it was at a Flushing Dragonboat Festival, that I got to meet Laura. It was at least 4 years ago and I don't know how old Laura is now, so I can only guess how old she was then. (4 years old? definitely no more than 5) But soon after meeting her, she was eager to read me a picture book from cover to cover. Bill, you came in and laughed about how I'd never escape now that she had me in her clutches. You told me that Laura was already three grades levels ahead in her reading and that you and An-Marie didn't specifically do anything to make that happen. I remember the proud smile and sparkle in your eyes. It was the same smile and sparkle whenever Laura threw a particularly good punch at Edgar's open palm. There's no way anyone could doubt that you loved your girls with all your heart and that you intended to impart all the good things in life to them.

You are dearly missed. Thank you for even the little things. Rest in peace, or rock out.

To my dear brother, your departure is too soon and so unexpected. I'm saddened by the thought that I will never have the opportunity to chat nor see you again. I'm grateful that we were able to reunite, become a family again, and discover each other as adults. You lived your life to fullest and I will miss you immensely.

Love,

Irene

Dear Bill,

I met you a few years ago during my first experience doing dragonboat for MAD. I remembered you as a caring, focused, and attentive instructor who always looked out for others. You were one of the few that all the new recruits looked up to; having that great balance between teacher and fellow paddler.

I hope you find peace in your next life, knowing that you had created a wonderful and loving circle of family and friends that will forever keep you in their memories. All that is left is to just remember to keep that perfect A form.

You will be forever missed,
Kent

My dearest An-marie, nakakashocked talaga nung nabalitaan namin na wala na si Bill PJon... Pls accept my deepest sympathy and heartfelt sadness to you and my beautiful pamangkins Laura and Anabelle.. from Malaya, Philippines.. Auntie Mac/Marilou and (Lolo Mario and Lola Luisa and Family)! Take care and God Bless You! <3 <3 <3

Our dear An-marie,
We were all deeply saddened and shocked by the unbelievable and devastating news of Bill's sudden passing. Our heart and prayers are with you and your girls in this most difficult time of your life. May the good Lord grant you the strength and courage to carry on, with the loving support of family and friends.
May you also find comfort in the thought that your beloved Bill is now resting in peace with God in Heaven and watching over you and Laura and Annabelle.
Our deepest sympathy and condolences.
Love,
Auntie Marichu, Uncle Vic, Michael, Michelle, Melissa and Mark

I've only known Bill for a little over a year and the only times I would see him was on a paintball outing with PBShifu, but he was so much more then just that. He helped me many times and was always willing to go out of his way to do so. He is not just a friend but also someone I can look up to. He was filled with knowledge and experience that he shared with everyone that was willing to listen. He was caring, dedicated, wise, and could make anyone laugh. I will alway strive to be what Bill was and will always remember him.

My condolences to his family and friends.

Marco,

Hi dad! All your friends are awesome and their helping us get through this difficult time. We all love you so much!!!! Miss you today and everyday! Talk to you tomorrow.
Hugs and kisses,
Booboo❤️❤️❤️❤️

Dear An-Marie, my sincere condolences to you and the family. I am in a state of shock at the moment. I first met Bill Jon at Brooklyn Tech High School, we were in the same class so we passed by each other. But we really met playing tackle football in Flushing Medows, we were in opposite sides, and we where the hardest hitters out there. I ripped his Pittsburgh Steeler football jersey that day, needless to say he punished a few people on my team because of that which I returned the favor. We came away respecting the competitive fire we both had, and our love of football. Bill was a competitor, never backed down, never quit, we both shared the same trait. In football we competed on who could have the toughest hit. In paintball it was Bill and myself in the front, jumping over the bunkers close range. In dragonboat, well that you know that one. But as much as he liked to show that the tough exterior, there was always a sensitive side to Bill. He was as comfortable doing interior design and decorating as much as going out for his daily run. He would tinker with his paintball guns, making them lighter by drilling holes in the handles. He was truly a modern renaissance man. A big loss, please give a hug to the little ones, as I know he loved them very much.   Much love Albert

Aw Bill Jon,
You were always the most alive guy I knew.
In our corner of the ARC office we sat side by side and you let me follow your search for your mother and sister. You told me all about your childhood. I remember when you met An. Alice and I came to the wedding. Thank you for sharing so many chapters of your life with me.

Dear Ann,
I know that this is a very difficult time for you, but despite of it all you found peace in knowing that he is now in a better place watching over you and the girls. Continue to be strong, especially for the girls, you are their strength now and they are your source of happiness. Know also that you are in our every prayer through this tragic time. May you find comfort and peace with those around you. Rest in peace Bill.
With our deepest sympathy,
Chester, Lucy, Syd and Chelcey

The last time I chatted with Bill, we discussed getting together with our families, but we never got a chance to do that. Although it's been years since I've last seen Bill, we stayed in touch through Fb. I could tell, from the posts and photos of his family on his Fb page, that he was a loving husband and father. He was a good man and touched so many lives during his time here with us. My condolences to An-Marie, Laura, and Anabelle for this terrible loss. Rest in peace Bill. You are forever in our hearts and memories, and will truly be missed.

Dear Laura and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know how difficult that this is for you because I lost my father when I was 12 (and my sister was 8 too.) If I can be of any help to you, please don't hesitate to come see me in my classroom. I'll pray for you, your mom, and your sister. Stay strong!
Mrs. Launer

Dear An, Laura and Anabelle,
Our sincere condolences to you all.  We were shocked and deeply saddened to hear of this sudden heartbreaking news.  We are so grateful to have gotten to know Bill and you all.  Our families met only several years ago, but in the years since you have been more like family to us.  We have come to know how wonderful Bill is as a person.  He was a loving father, a loving husband and a great friend.  He was always so positive and eager to play with the kids.  Our kids shared so many fond memories of the various trips we took, from Dutch Wonderland to skiing.  We will forever miss Bill.

Our deepest sympathy,
Amanda, Lawrence, Tyler, Tea & Trey (The Glynn Family)

Dear Mrs. Jon, Laura, and Anabelle,

I am so saddened to hear of your sudden and tragic loss. I know that Mr. Jon was a phenomenal father. 

I know this because after having taught Laura, and then meeting each of you; I was easily able to see where she received her intelligence, diligence, and appreciation for life.

I remember bumping into Mr. Jon and Anabelle on Lexington Avenue and 84th Street, right near where I live. I was so shocked to see them, as well as fascinated that Anabelle recognized me, so far away from OCR. Mr. Jon explained to me that he often took the girls to NYC to visit museums and spend quality time with each of them. I was so impressed by this and I remember thinking; "This is why Laura is so curious and knowledgeable about so many different things." 

You have my deepest sympathy and you are all in my thoughts and prayers. 

Sincerely,
Ms. Garelick

Dear Bill,
I cried a little each day since I learned of your passing. I can't believe that you are gone. You left us way too soon. There is one less great man in this world and that's what made me so sad. We still had so much to learn from you. You happiness and optimism toward life was so contagious. I wish we had more time with you. You will be truly missed and we will never forget you.
Dear An-Marie,
Since the day I met Bill, he was always so into you. He was always talking about you and never flirted with other girls. He was a man in love that's for sure.  When I met you guys you were about to get married and I think you were the reason he was such a happy man.
Dear Laura and Annabelle,
Your daddy was so proud of you. He couldn't wait for you girls to grow up to paddle for M.A.D. I remembered him holding the tiniest and cutest M.A.D. t-shirt for Laura. I knew then that he was the best daddy that a girl can ask for. Please know that we will always be there for you. 

Xin and Terry

I am at a loss for words...my best friend is gone today and forever. Bill and the children are everything to me and I feel a large void in my heart without him here. He is the love of my life...to others he was Mr. 411 because he had the craziest trivia in his head and knew a lot or a little of everything. 

Our crazy adventure began in 1996 and we met at a dragonboat race in Toronto and he swept me off my feet...he was the sweetest and so thoughtful and caring. I had hard time keeping up with his energy but I must have passed the test because I was lucky enough to be asked to marry him and didn't even hesitate to say yes! One of the happiest day of my life knowing I had found my soul mate for life, someone to grow old with and have children with. 

We have two beautiful daughters together, Laura and Anabelle. Just like their father, they are energetic and smart and tech smart (thank goodness because I am not and now they will be my go to for tech advice) Bill made sure to make sure we were outgoing and ensure that was also instilled in the kids...We have many memories of numerous biking adventures, travels, playing catch, snowboarding, hiking...there was definitely no dull moments with Bill.

He made friends wherever he went, even standing on line at store, people would talk to him..because he is just that approachable and has one of those trusting and kind faces. The outpouring of friends and family support and sympathy has been overwhelming that I can barely keep up with the communications. 

Bill is the epitomy of what it means to be a wonderful and loving husband and friend...grateful for the time we had with him and he will be forever imprinted in our hearts. We have many videos and pictures that he had created and saved for the girls for when they got older but how ironic they are actually to help us help remember him. 

I know it will be a difficult road ahead without him but I am confident with God's help and the world of friends and family we both have, we will see the light at the end of the tunnel one day. Knowing Bill, he is up in heaven already running a biatholon or dragonboat boot camp! Remember Bill with happy thoughts and laughter as that as what he would like. A very simple man but all heart and there for everyone. 

Now my husband, lay in peace and now your friends are taking care of you by getting us through this difficult time. All my love to you my sweet, until we meet again...save me a spot at the start line..

To OUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY~ The outpouring of prayers and sympathies have been overwhelming...Laura, Anabelle and I thank all of you for everything as we know we are in good hands with all of you to help us get through this difficult time.

LOVE YOU DADDY ~ An, Laura and Anabelle

Hi daddy! I miss you already. You were gone too soon, but you were a fighter. You will always be apart of my heart forever and ever. One day I'll see you again. I know God is taking care of you for us until we can see you again. For now, we will try to remember all the funny moments we shared with you. Your legacy will always live on for decades to come. Miss you dad! Love you! ❤️
- Booboo (Laura)

Dear An, Laura and Anabelle,

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Bill. My hear and prayers go out to you. I pray you and yoyr family stay strong during the difficult time.

With Love,
Mandie, Steve & Savannah

Bill was a man in full. He exemplified so many virtues: strength, dignity, patience, kindness. We would always joke that, if you ever found yourself in real trouble in life, Bill is the one you would want by your side. Except we weren't joking, really. Bill is irreplaceable and we will miss him until we join him.

Dear Jon family, I am saddened by the passing of Bill. He greatly loved his wife and 2 children. His love for his family is what I remember most of my brief encounters with Bill.

God's grace be with you all.

With brotherly love,
Ho, Crislet, Rebekah, and Hailee.
Former Seadogs (1996) and DCH (1997) dragon boat competitor.

I want you to know this daddy: you will ALWAYS have a special place in everybody's heart that was lucky enough to meet you and know you. Miss you too much!!!!!!!!
-Booboo

To An-Marie, Laura & Anabelle,
My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. The one thing I will always remember about Bill is the smile on his face, he was always smiling and happy. And of course I will always remember him playing volleyball for OCR. My prayers are with you and your family and may love surround you.
With deepest sympathy,
Trish, John, Chris & Alexa Fasce

Will miss the random chat messages and talking about our kids. I'm sorry I will not be able to pay my respects in person but you and the family are in my prayers. You were such a great guy, the good ones always go first. RIP Bill.
-May

I met Bill first in New York when I dragonboatted down there with a bunch of friends. He was such a generous and friendly guy from the beginning that I couldn't help but feel a strong sense of trust and bond with him. Over the past few years we have remained friends and it was always a pleasure to see him or to converse with him via Facebook. He was a great man and it's a tragic loss for him to be gone so soon. It was a pleasure and privilege to have had him in my life.

Bill had a most unique gift--a blessing--of being able to positively impact & inspire the lives he touched. Some of us knew him early on at IHM & how wonderful to see the loving, fun-loving adventurous witty little boy grow up & maintain the same traits & integrity throughout his life & create such a beautiful family with the same values. May you forever feel the joy Bill brought to your hearts & souls, particularly during this heart-aching, painful time of grief. May God bless Bill's family & may you feel Jon's presence with you--because he's right there.

Dear An-Marie:

Bill Jon was true blue. I will miss him and I will miss his surprise instant messages that popped up during my work day. Last month, when I called to wish him a happy birthday, all he talked about was how much he loved you and the girls. He was a man of honor. He was a man of his word. He would go a far distance to help someone in need. When we met in the early days of KRC we became good friends. From that moment, he always had my back. He was a hero and loved by so many. I will cherish the time he spent with my family. I will cherish the memory of your beautiful wedding. I will cherish that smile he would share when I was having a tough day. I will cherish all his goodness and all the ways he made the world a better place. Please know you and your children are in my heart and prayers. Love, Len Cox

Dear An-Marie, Laura, & Anabelle,

I am so deeply saddened by the news of Bill's passing. We went to school together. I have many fond memories of him from our days back at IHM. He was always so sweet. I'm so grateful I got to see him at the IHM reunion.

RIP Bill. You are all in my prayers.

With deepest sympathy,
Veronica Sahlani

To the Jon family,
I was saddened to hear of Billy's passing. I taught him in the 8th grade at Immaculate Heart of Mary and remember him as a quiet, respectful, young man. My prayers are with you...I'm sure that he's looking down at you and will always be with you in spirit.
Sincerely,
Ms. LaFerlita

Dear An-Marie, Laura, & Anabelle,

I am so sorry to hear the news of Bill's passing. We went to IHM together and I remember him always having a smile on his face. My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
May he rest in peace.

Maria V.

Dear An, Laura and Anabelle

  I have not know Bill for as long as most but of the last 2 years or so, I've felt like I've know him for an eternity. I met him when I first joined the paintball group he was in and like most of the other members, we just clicked. Bill was a amazing teammate, brother on the field and a awesome friend who I can call my brother off the field also. I remember talking to him about Dragon Boat just to find out he participated in it and that he kind of remembered me from the late 90's.
   I am still at a loss of words, shock and disbelief and I miss him very much. My condolences, my prayers and my heart goes out to you and your family. Bill's legacy will leave on within PB ShiFu also and his spirit will always be with us as we play.

With deepest sympathy,
Chris Lee

I'll always remember the tent you put up for our sleepover and how funny you were at six flags ❤ rip

Words cannot express our sadness at the untimely passing of a great guy! We are here for you An, Laura, and Anabelle!

Love,

Tom, Teresa, Kristina, and Victoria Bussi

Thanks for the optimism and passion for life that you've shown us everyday! It will continue to be an inspiration for our lives moving forward... Those smiles and laughter will always be with us in our family gatherings!
Uncle Don, Auntie Jane, JD and Ian

Great husband, awesome dad, high energy with an unforgettable smile.
Rest In Peace Bill.

Dear An, Laura and Anabelle,
My prayers are with you.
With deepest sympathy,
Sinead

I was shocked to hear of the sad demise of Bill.
My heartfelt condolences to you and ur family.
I pray to the Almighty Lord to give you courage,strenght and support.

Love, Auntie Nancy , Kathleen and Natalie

Dear An, Laura and Anabelle,

With a heavy heart I send my love and warm thoughts to you. Bill's life has been sadly short but he has left an amazing trail of wonderful memories, adventures, stories and laughter to everyone he has touched .... For all these he is already missed .... but his legacy through all of us who have known him will live on to be remembered. Remember that you are surrounded with a wonderful support system that you can rely on . We are all here for you.

Love always, Hanson

I am grateful that we were able to spend some time with your family last year even for few hours.  In those few hours, I remember Bill with his smiles and laughter as he played jokes with the family. 

Bill – Rest in Peace. Thank you for sharing your life with An, Laura and Anabelle

An, Laura and Anabelle – Our prayers are with you.  Remember Bill Is one of the angels in heaven.

Much Love… Auntie Debbie and Uncle Emmanuel

To the Jon Family,

As one of Bill's classmates at Immaculate Heart of Mary school, I can only tell you that our hearts are saddened by your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you. We have fond childhood memories of Bill and grateful we were all reunited a few years ago. He was so proud of his of his family and smiled ear to ear when sharing his life stories. He will always be with you. 

Deepest sympathy,

Karen McMaon

Words are very inadequate to express the pain me and my family feeling. We pray to God to give you courage to overcome this grief. May God bless you and your daughter's. Endow you with love and care. Stay strong. We always remember and pray for Bill and loving family (An, Laura and Annabelle).

I worked with Bill in the 90s at KRC in Soho and then midtown. I have such good memories of his warmth and amazing talent in everything he did. He was welcoming and open to all, funny, and just made you feel that if he was working with you, you would have everything you needed. More recently, through Facebook, it was wonderful to see how much happiness he got from his family. It was clear he lived life fully. My thoughts are with his family and friends.

I remember the first time Carl, Vangie and myself spent Christmas in New York. Bill invited Carl, Ian and Jd for rock-climbing. We had such great time together.

One morning, I noticed that I needed some oil for my car. He readily handed me a can of oil he has gotten from his garage.

I saw how he loved his family, posting their pictures, specially his daughers in FB as often as I could remember, in all occasions, events and in daily celebrations of everyday life.

Bill was a good man.

I regret that I can't personally say this to you Bill, but you were an important figure in my life in ways that you didn't realize. Whether it was pounding out a rough practice on the dragonboat, cycling up those endless hills in the Palisades or grinding out a tough day, I could always turn to you while grimacing in complaint and see your big smile of encouragement. The love of sport and the toughness you brought with hardship is something that I will always remember about you. Do everything with a smile no matter how hard it gets. I'm going to miss you.

An-Marie, Laura and Annabelle, we're so sorry for your loss. It's apparent that you were the center of Bill's love and attention. We know he will be with you in spirit and support you through the darkest of times. Bill will take pride and comfort in knowing that you will get through this by remembering that enthusiasm he had for life - that life is to be filled with love, exploration, and optimism. 

Love,
Julie & Allen