Captain Jonathan C. Taylor

We will love you and miss you always.

Uncle Jon was an altruistic giver and a protector. He cared so deeply for everyone that came into his life (dogs included!), and always acted selflessly to help them when they needed it. The sacrifices he made for those he loved spoke louder than words.

Jon was also one of the most intelligent people I knew. No matter the conversation topic that was brought up, he would have an almost encyclopedic knowledge on the subject matter. He had traveled there, experienced that culture, and memorized their history. He knew all the details, specifications, and stories - things that I cannot even pretend to understand and translate into writing now.

Even with distance or time apart, Jon would magically come into the picture and show us all how much he cared.

To me, he really was magic. One of my first, most vivid memories as a child was with him, and it was filled with endless laughter and joy. He would swing me around/upside down/run around, and play...he gave me the attention that all little kids want - he made me feel special. Years later, he would team up with my Uncle Doug as the "intimidating and protective uncles" - making sure our (my sister, Whitney, and my) boyfriends knew not to mess around, or else... As embarrassing as it was at times, they could get away with it because they were the "cool" uncles, and deep down we felt proud to be protected. And, as a bonus, we have great stories from those moments that we still joke about to this day.

The magic continued over the years with surprise support, generosity, and care. He supported my cross-country biking trip, saved my sanity during my wedding weekend, and was always ready to help - no questions asked. (He would just say, "It's no big deal.") I was so grateful for him. We all were. And I will forever be appreciative of his generosity and care.

Even if not always physically present, he was always there for his family. And on the verge of reconnection, he was robbed of time. We were all robbed of more time with him. But we need to be grateful for the wonderful memories we have, and at peace with the fact that he is in a better place.

Uncle Jon is now with Mimi and Gimpa. All three of them are in a better place, looking after our little Beatrice, and, of course, all of our pups that have moved on as well.

His brothers, sister-in-laws, nieces, and nephews love and miss him so much.

We love you, Uncle Jon.