Jon-Michael Masters

Jon-Michael Masters obituary, Portland, OR

Jon-Michael Masters

Jon-Michael Masters Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Nov. 29, 2024.
Jon-Michael Masters, born on December 7, 1981, in Waterbury, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2024. He was the beloved son of Terri Cohen and Gerry Masters and a cherished brother to Jeff Masters.

Jon-Michael pursued his education at the University of Akron, where he graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering. His professional journey led him to serve with distinction in the Army Corps of Engineers, specifically within the Portland, Oregon District. His work was marked by dedication and a commitment to excellence, contributing significantly to the projects he undertook.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jon-Michael was a man of diverse passions and a generous spirit. He had an insatiable love for travel, which took him to various corners of the world, enriching his life with diverse cultures and experiences. At home, he enjoyed tending to his vegetable garden and sharing its bounty with his neighbors, especially those in need, reflecting his deep compassion and desire to make a positive impact in his community.

Jon-Michael also had a talent for cooking, often preparing meals for family and friends. His gatherings were always filled with laughter, warmth, good food, and great conversation, creating lasting memories for all who shared in his hospitality.

Above all, Jon-Michael lived with a true joie de vivre-a love of life that radiated from him in everything he did. Whether embarking on a new adventure, savoring a quiet moment with loved ones, or simply sharing a joke, his zest for life was contagious. His infectious smile, vibrant energy, and ability to find joy in the simplest moments left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

His life was a testament to the values of kindness, generosity, and a love of life. Jon-Michael's legacy will be carried on by his family and friends, who will forever remember his radiant spirit, his unwavering positivity, and the love he shared with those around him.

In honoring Jon-Michael's memory, his family invites those who knew him to celebrate his life and continue his tradition of kindness and community service. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to The American Red Cross.

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July 6, 2025

Patti Griffin planted trees.

July 6, 2025

Patti Griffin posted to the memorial.

June 15, 2025

Terri Cohen posted to the memorial.

Single Memorial Tree

Patti Griffin

Planted Trees

Patti Griffin

July 6, 2025

Jon-Michael carved his initials in his grandparents tree, a rite of passage for the boys

Terri Cohen

June 15, 2025

Yuliya Nikiforets

December 3, 2024

JM loved crabs. On our way to a site visit for Baltimore District, he found a spot with crabs and insisted we eat there and order the biggest crabs they had every time I eat crabs, I´ll think of him. It was always a good time with him, lots of laughs.
When he was int the hospital I brought in a toy crab, we Sharpied some teeth on it and he named it Kirby the Crab it put a smile on his face.
He was excited to get out of the hospital so that he could take a few classes and then help engineer medical devices. Staying in the hospital he saw all the ways that things could be improved. He was always caring in that way.
As others have mentioned, he loved his garden and would always show me pictures and update me on the latest harvest.
Thank you for your positive impact and contributions in this world, JM. You´ll be missed.

Casey C

December 2, 2024

When he ate 13 f-ing crabs and we were almost late for a flight out of DC. JM, you and your damn blue crabs...I'll really miss you buddy.

Michael McGee

December 2, 2024

Jon-Michael was a gift to all who were fortunate enough to have known him.
A free spirit with a witty sense of humor and a kind, generous soul who unfiltered and unabashed, lived life to its fullest. To him, no one was a stranger but rather a friend he just hadn't spoken to yet.
I am truly grateful for the time we were able to spend together over the years.
May his memory be a blessing.

Jeremy Lind

December 2, 2024

I worked with JM for several years. Really all-around rad guy with a kind heart. Enjoyed our conversations about gardening in particular, he was very fond of that topic and sharing his endeavors. Had a great sense of humor as well, lots of laughs were had on everything and anything. He will be missed.

Aaron Trigilia

December 1, 2024

He was a free spirit and would do anything without question. He love exploring nature as kids. We were close friends for most of my life. I will forever remember all the good times.

Stephen Cohen

December 1, 2024

I am indeed proud to call Jon-Michael my son,his kind nature, his infectious laugh and his caring manner will live on in my heart Stephen Cohen

Gavin Smith

November 30, 2024

I worked with Jon Michael at USACE Portland district for 4 years and we had a lot of great lunch and coffee breaks. He was a kind soul who wanted to talk to everyone and get to know your story. He always made me laugh and he will be greatly missed.

Single Memorial Tree

Eric Heisman

Planted Trees

Eric Heisman

November 30, 2024

Jon Jon was my buddy in college during my first year at UofTampa. He was a lot of fun and a really funny guy. I haven´t spoken with him in years, but I´m sorry to hear this news. I have a photo somewhere with him and I and I will share it one day when I find it.

Earth & Sky Memorial

Jess V M Miah M

Sent Flowers

Single Memorial Tree

Talhaht Mannan

Planted Trees

Keli Russell

November 30, 2024

There is nothing I can remember that didn´t involve laughter. Although it has been years and years, this one hit hard. The memories are deep and pivotal in growing up as a kid. I hope he touched everyone he met which I´m sure he did and I wish we had a time to reconnect... and wish we had some time to eat some chicken feet together, it would´ve been a blast. No matter the time or distance, some people touch you more than others.... He left that mark. Much love to you all who have lost him.

Jeff Masters

November 30, 2024

I´ll start with a memory. Jon-Michael ate anything. He got it from our dad. His favorite food in Korea where he worked was boneless chicken feet so spicy they ruined the rest of your night.

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Sign Jon-Michael Masters's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 6, 2025

Patti Griffin planted trees.

July 6, 2025

Patti Griffin posted to the memorial.

June 15, 2025

Terri Cohen posted to the memorial.