Jon Phillip Jontz

Jon Phillip Jontz, M.D., 89, of Brutus, Michigan, entered into eternal rest on September 7, 2025. Born in Silver Lake, Indiana, on January 4, 1936, he was the beloved son of Ray Walter and Ethel Edna (Metzger) Jontz.

A bright student and natural leader, Jon graduated as valedictorian of Silver Lake High School in 1954, where he also enjoyed playing baseball and basketball. He went on to attend Indiana University, graduating in 1958, and earned his medical degree in 1961 from the Indiana University School of Medicine. Following his residency in Anesthesiology, Jon faithfully served patients at Community Hospitals of Indianapolis for over 30 years until his retirement in 1995. He also shared his gifts as a member of the Community Hospital Board of Directors and served honorably as a staff physician with the Indiana Army National Guard.

In retirement, Jon and his devoted wife, Sue, settled at Burt Lake in Brutus, Michigan, where they made their home for 30 years. There, Jon’s love for community and nature shone brightly. As a founding member of the Burt Lake Preservation Association, he worked tirelessly to protect and preserve the beauty of the lake he loved so dearly. His efforts were recognized with the Compass Award, honoring his many years of service.

Above all, Jon’s life was defined by his love and care for others. Family was at the heart of everything he did, and he extended that same kindness to friends, neighbors, and even strangers. He was always ready to lend a hand, listen with patience, and offer encouragement.

Jon also found joy in the outdoors, whether fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling. He was a passionate sports fan, especially of Indiana University athletics, the Indianapolis Colts, the Cincinnati Bengals, and the Cincinnati Reds. Together with Sue, Jon traveled the world, creating cherished memories with dear friends in places as far as the Vatican, Australia, and New Zealand, often weaving fishing adventures into their journeys.

Jon was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sue Carol (Pribble) Jontz; his brothers, Joe (Suzie) and Dick (Jackie) Jontz; his sister, Jean (Joe) Holwager; and his daughter-in-law, Kathleen Reckley Jontz. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Jane Jontz (Tom), Kay Brown (Bill), and Jay Jontz; his grandchildren, Chris Brown (Allie), Tom Brown, Will and Matt Jontz; and his great-grandson, Reid Brown.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. at New Hope United Methodist Church, 4516 US-31, Levering, Michigan 49755, with a service of remembrance to follow at 10:00 a.m. Jon will be laid to rest at Greenwood Cemetery in Petoskey, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Burt Lake Preservation Association or to the hospice organization of your choice.