Jonathan DeFrees

Jonathan believed in my artistic abilities and helped me obtain permission to take art classes during my senior year when this was not normally permitted for college prep students. I thoroughly enjoyed all of these art classes and creating art is still an important part of my life. That year Jonathan gave his students Christmas cards he made as a demonstration of a simple printing technique. Photo attached.

I am so sorry to hear this. My husband and I met Jon through Elizabeth when I was at ESF. We spent many long, most enjoyable evenings, weekends, New Years, together over the years in Syracuse, at Sodus Pt. and Chautauqua. Rest in peace, my friend.

John was such a great guy. He always had the best garden and would share his harvest with us every season. I got to watch him design and paint those beautiful murals in town. It was magical. I will miss him trying to devise ways to keep the bunnies from his garden.

Jon was a peaceful soul. Enjoyed listening to the stories of the old neighborhood and my parents role in his life. My sympathy to the whole family.

I till his garden every spring. I had been looking forward to a visit and chat. I will miss this annual job and other times he stops in the shop, just to say hello.

Donald (Duff) Henry.

I had the pleasure of knowing John as we and Bill Nichol worked on the Village murals. For over a year we spent many hours working together with John at the helm of the project. It was such a pleasure to work with John and learn from him. A quiet man, who loved creating art in any form. My sincere condolences to his family.

We feel like a part of our history just fell away. So many stories. Just this Sunday, Peter was talking about Jon, some clams and a lot of beer. We will miss you Jon!