Born on December 20, 1972, in Stevens Point, WI, Jason was the beloved son of Thomas and Genevieve (Harrigan) Jonely. In 1986, his family moved to Ashwaubenon, WI, where he would graduate from Ashwaubenon High School with the class of 1991. Jason's academic journey led him to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he graduated with honors on May 20, 1995, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations, Economics, and Political Science. His time at UW-Madison was marked by his dedication to the School of Education, where he began his career as an undergraduate student worker.

After graduation, Jason continued his service to the University, transitioning to a full-time role in 1997 as an advisor in the International Student Services Office (ISS). Over the next two decades, Jason rose to the position of Associate Director of ISS, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the international student experience at UW-Madison. His leadership extended to various campus-wide committees, including the Exchange Coordinators Committee, the International Student Recruitment and Marketing ad hoc committee, and the Behavior Intervention Team (BIT). Jason was instrumental in the hiring and training of several International Student Advisors and contributed significantly to the candidate search and screen processes within ISS. As a member of NAFSA: Association of International Educators, the world's largest and most diverse nonprofit association dedicated to international education and exchange, he worked to advance policies and practices that ensure a more interconnected, peaceful world today and for generations to come. He held volunteer leadership roles at the state, regional, and national levels, including serving as Chair-Elect, Chair, and Past-Chair of Region V. In May 2017, Jason transitioned to the International Division as the King-Morgridge Scholars Program Manager, where his passion for international education continued to expand.

Jason was a frequent presenter, teacher and representative in all of his university endeavors. He represented the Dean of the International Division as a duly appointed member of the shared governance committee on Immigration and International Issues from Fall 2018 to Spring 2024 and participated in the Joseph F. Kauffman Administrative Development Program. Jason enjoyed his career at the University, his co-workers, students and the amazing people he had the opportunity to meet throughout the United States and the world. He was dedicated to each and every student he worked with over a nearly 30-year career; most recently through his work with the Morgridge-King Scholars endowment for third world students.

Jason was known for his quick wit and dry, sarcastic sense of humor, appreciated deeply by those who knew him best. He was an avid reader, with an appreciation for classic movies, jazz singers, black-and-white photography, as well as creative design of all kinds. His hobbies also included a love of cooking, baking cakes and cookies, and an endless pursuit to tame his unruly backyard. However, Jason's greatest joy was found in the company of his family and extended families, with whom he shared countless treasured moments.

Jason is survived by his loving parents, Thomas and Genevieve (Harrigan) Jonely; his brother, Ryan Jonely; his sister, Janna Jonely (Jeremy Jones); as well as all of the Harrigan and Jonely aunts, uncles, and first cousins, along with many other relatives and friends who will deeply miss his presence in their lives.

In accordance with the family's wishes, private funeral services were held on Friday, August 16, 2024, at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, officiated by Rev. Dr. Matthew Sauer. Family and friends are invited to attend graveside committal services at Oakwood Cemetery in Weyauwega, WI, on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.

Jason was the most loving, reliable and kind son and brother. He will be dearly missed by his family and all those who called him a friend. Jason's spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him, and his legacy of kindness, humor, and dedication will continue to inspire.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials in Jason's name which will be used to benefit organizations that were important to him.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 North Water Street, Manitowoc, WI, 54220, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Madison.com on Aug. 18, 2024.