Jonathan Lee Jankowski

Jonathan Lee “Oni” Jankowski, age 40, passed away on January 9, 2026, after a long and hard-fought illness. He bowed out as he lived—a true champion, defined by courage, grit, and an indomitable spirit.

Jon was born on November 19, 1985, in Westland, Michigan, to Angela Jankowski and Glenn Hoover. He was raised in Garden City, Michigan, where he graduated from Garden City High School in 2003. Throughout his life, Jon lived in several parts of Michigan before ultimately settling in Columbus, Ohio, which he proudly called home.

A fighter in every sense of the word, Jon’s competitive journey began in his youth with a deep love for wrestling. That passion eventually led him to karate, where he earned the rank of Red Belt, Third Stripe in Tang Soo Do, competing and winning in advanced-division tournaments. His dedication and talent culminated in becoming a WKC National Gold Medalist, earning him the honor of representing his country at the WKC World Championships in Ireland.

That same fighting spirit carried Jon through his battle with cancer and multiple infections. Even as his health declined, his dedication to martial arts never wavered—driving more than three hours to train with David Praim one final time, despite the toll it took on him physically.

Beyond martial arts, Jon was a devoted University of Michigan football fan, a tireless worker, and above all, a loving and proud father. His children were his world and the reason he fought as hard as he did. He took immense pride in their accomplishments and never missed an opportunity to brag about them.

Though Jon liked to joke that he was “a jerk,” those who knew him best knew the truth. He would drop everything to help someone in need and would give the shirt off his back without hesitation. He was a friend to all - unless you were an Ohio State or Michigan State fan - then he’d give you a little grief first… and then be your friend.

Jon embodied resilience. He did not lose his battle—he won it. He now rests in peace, his spirit unbroken, his legacy firmly etched in the lives of everyone he touched. All who knew him are better for having experienced his strength, humor, and unwavering heart.

Jon is survived by his beloved children Cayla, Hayley, and Robbie; his parents Glenn (Christina) Hoover and Angela (Billy) Gall; his siblings Dustin, Alysha, Mikey, Chantel, Josh, and Sara; and many cherished nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends—especially Shalee, Rob, Chris, and his extended martial arts family, past and present.

He was preceded in death by his son Gracen; his “Granny,” Christine Sebring; his busia, Gertrude Fench; paternal grandparents Delores and Dale Hoover and maternal grandparents Cynthia Ann McDonald and Edward Jankowski.

In addition to a memorial barbecue planned for the spring in Michigan, a fundraiser has been set up to receive donations for the K.I. Tang Soo Do Foundation in Jon’s memory. Funds will be used to help underprivileged students negate any cost to train in martial arts. The link can be found here https://gofund.me/660e80c89 

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who cared for Jon and to everyone who offered prayers, support, and love throughout his journey.