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Jonathan Horst-Martz Obituary
Hans Horst-Martz died December 30, 2020 while at home in Philadelphia on winter break from college. He was 22 years old. The cause of death was suicide and the family believes that Hans struggled with the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. The family urges anyone experiencing feelings of isolation or depression to seek help right away.
Hans is survived by his parents, Jenny Anne and Galen Horst-Martz, his sister Emma Horst-Martz, his grandparents, Anne and Larry Martz, and his many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends including his long-time girlfriend, Katie Carlson.
Hans brought energy and conviction to every aspect of his life and work. He was pursuing a double major in Botany and Environmental Studies and expected to graduate from Connecticut College in May, 2021. Hans lived out his passion for environmental justice not only through his course work but also through his work as a fellow in the college's Office of Sustainability; through two summers of independent botany research; and through extended studies of regenerative farming and community agriculture in Australia, in western Vermont, and on his college campus. Hans was equally passionate about working towards social justice, a commitment that was evident in his service to the Black Student Union at his high school, Friends Select School; in his absolute commitment to gender equality, the LGBTQIA community, and people of all socioeconomic backgrounds. He wrestled with his own privilege and lived out his convictions by using his buying power as a consumer to support small businesses and fight the power of mega-corporations.
A remarkable leader in the context of sports teams, work projects, and social groups, Hans is remembered as kind, funny, and dedicated to his loved ones. Hans was actively making plans for his final semester at college, his future in the regenerative farming community, and social activities with family and friends at the time of his sudden death.
Hans was a person of enormous talent, wisdom, and compassion and his suicide was a terrible shock. His family asks everyone to take special care with one another by taking the time to ask about the wellbeing of family and friends, so people know they are not alone, that they have your love and support. This will be the first and most appropriate way to honor Hans' life. Those who wish to honor his memory more tangibly are encouraged to plant a native plant or tree, get out in nature, and support local businesses and farms. Contributions may be made in his memory to:
Pasa Sustainable Agriculture: https://pasafarming.org/donate/
Mennonite Central Committee: https://donate.mcc.org/cause/water
Services will be held at a later date when it is warmer and safer to gather together, perhaps outside.
Memories and Condolences
for Jonathan Horst-Martz
29 Entries
May 23, 2021
What a beautiful soul. May he Rest In Peace
Vanessa
March 10, 2021
Hans spent a month with us here in Australia. Where we played with bees together and had lots of conversation of how we could make this planet a better place. He was hope for us. Sad to see him leave way too early. Here he is on a rooftop in Melbourne with the bees.
Abigail Brown
January 27, 2021
I loved experiencing Hans excel in every aspect of life. He was so passionate in our environmental science classes, while also growing to be one of the most solid players on the ultimate frisbee team. He knew how to make anyone laugh. And he had just fantastic style. Being around him made everything better. Hans’s life made our college a happier place, and I know we will forever be in search of a light so bright.
Esther Schlotterbeck
January 16, 2021
I remember babysitting Hans when we lived next door and what a sweet bundle of energy he was. It sounds like he grew up into a remarkable young man. I'm so sorry to hear of his passing - sending my heartfelt condolences for your loss, Jenny Anne & Galen & Emma.
Monica Djerassi
January 12, 2021
Friends Select Memory- There is Hans on the right of Obama. Obama was in Philly to make the speech on Race in 2008. Before the speech, Obama paced back and forth on Race Street but then saw our kids playing and joined them in the playground. And there is Hans in the center of it all. We have so many lovely memories of Hans.
Helen Fulmer
January 11, 2021
Hans was quite simply one of the biggest reasons I endured my first year at Conn, having struggled with depression for a long time. Thanking him for that is something I wish I had done more of. Hans had a phenomenal sense of dry humor and loud, passionate energy that drew me to him the first day of college. He challenged me as a friend, as a teammate, and as a peer more than most people I have met at Conn. He could make a mean cocktail and was the life of the party(especially when we got to dress up). I will fondly remember late nights dancing under rainbow lights to loud music, long walks across campus in the early hours of the morning, sleeping in the back of the car with our stomachs full of milkshakes on our way to South Carolina, and impromptu hikes that so often turned into photoshoots. Hans had an outspoken personality that pushed others towards more zeal in their everyday lives, often making an adventure out of what was around him. His friendship was a gift, and my true and deep condolences are with his family and friends. He is missed.
Aria Devlin
January 11, 2021
I spent my semester abroad in Australia with Hans. We shared many laughs as we hiked, camped, studied, traveled and danced together. One look alone from Hans would bring a smile to my face. Hans was a great and supportive friend. I will forever remember these moments, and feel grateful for the time we spent together.
Kathleen Pritchett
January 11, 2021
Ample make this bed.
Make this bed with awe;
In it wait till judgment break
Excellent and fair.
Be its mattress straight,
Be its pillow round;
Let no sunrise' yellow noise
Interrupt this ground.
(Emily Dickinson)
As a mother and grandmother whose child and grandchild suffer from depression, I know how the uncertainty and confusion of this illness affects them. Please accept my condolences on your loss of Jonathan. Nothing will bring him back, but you will always remember his love, warmth, dedication and smile. Remember him in this way forever.
Bobbie Montgomery
January 11, 2021
Heartfelt prayers go out to the family and friends of Hans.
Jasper Perry-Anderson
January 10, 2021
I really admired Hans' principles and commitment to social justice when we were in high school together. My sincerest condolences to your family, to everyone missing Hans right now, and to everyone incorporating his core values into their lives.
Karl and Evelyn Bartsch
January 10, 2021
We grieve the death of Jonathan and give thanks for his life.
Marianna
January 10, 2021
Hans was one of my closest friends at Conn. He was a fierce, kind and true friend and I will miss him dearly. I think of him every time I am outside in nature, and am so grateful for the years we spent together.
Christy Reardon
January 10, 2021
Emma, Galen, Jenny Anne- so very sorry to hear of your loss. Holding you in the light during the days, weeks and months ahead. Thank you for sharing this tribute to his remarkable contributions to life and community during his time.
Ruth C Lee
January 10, 2021
Another wonderful memory of Hans and his first grade classmates at Friends Select School.
Lauren Hall
January 10, 2021
I remember Hans from the summer I worked in the Laurelville craft shop. Hans must have been 8 or 9 at the time. He came in every day during free time and would try his hand at whatever craft activity we had laying around. He was so sweet and thoughtful and made my days a joy.
Kathleen and Ronald Watkins
January 9, 2021
Hans grew up beside us, as neighbor and friend. The young man Hans became is testament to the great love of his parents and sister. His passing is more profound a loss than words can describe. However, the light he brought to this world will never be extinguished.
Ruth C Lee
January 9, 2021
My sincere condolences to your family on the loss of such a shining light remembered as Hans. I will forever hold fond memories of him as a bubbly, whimsical, inquisitive first grader. He loved to dress-up, write in his journal and play with the chicks. May God bless you and your family, and replace your sadness and grief with smiles, fond memories and peaceful thoughts. He will be missed. xo
Joel Weidner
January 9, 2021
Galen, Jenny Anne, and Emma, I did not know Hans and his live never intersected with any of our children. From reading the obituary he sounded like someone I would have liked to know. I am so sorry for your loss and for a life of promise that was cut short. Blessings to your entire family as you work through the grief of morning Han's death. May God hold you all close during this time.
Simone Taylor
January 9, 2021
Please except my deepest sympathies to you and your family at this time of grieving. May God be with you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Donna Romero
January 8, 2021
I have such happy memories of Hans--laughing with his friends, planning school events, flying across the hockey field, sharing thoughtful insights during class. A bright spirit and kind soul. Sending your family so much love.
Dan Capecchi
January 8, 2021
Since I had the good fortune to spend with Hans at Friends Select I have felt inspired by him to be my best self. It seemed to me that he did that so effortlessly.
ruby joy
January 8, 2021
will always remember learning with u my friend! much love, ruby joy
Brian Hueber
January 8, 2021
I’m so sorry. I’ll always remember Hans with a joyful spirit and big smile!- Tr.Brian
Mikiel McRae
January 8, 2021
I am heartbroken and horribly in shock over the loss of Hans. I will never forget his remarkable energy or the sight of him asleep on the floor of Windham 401 when he visited Conn in the fall of 2015. Hans really never met a stranger and approached life and others with such excitement and kindness - an example for us all. Sending my whole heart to Emma, Jenny Anne, and Galen, and Katie and all of Hans’s many friends and loved ones.
Kristina Lengel
January 8, 2021
My deepest sympathies to Jenny Anne, Galen, Emma and Katie on your loss. Hans lived life fully and I am in awe in all that he accomplished thus far. The pic is from when he raced in the 2015 Philly half marathon. Quite the motivator! He will be missed.
Janice Hadley and Rob Kyff
January 8, 2021
Dear Jenny Anne, Galen and Emma,
We are so sorry to learn of Hans' passing. Although we met him only briefly, we could instantly see that he was filled with energy, kindness and compassion. He brought great joy to his family and friends, including our daughter, Allison. We will never forget him. While we know that words aren't able to console the deep sadness you feel, please know that many, many people are thinking of you and holding you and Hans in their hearts and prayers.
Janice Hadley and Rob Kyff
ina shea
January 8, 2021
Hans always had a twinkle in his eye. The earth will miss this handsome lad, and I will too.
Carolyn Brubaker
January 8, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Allie Kyff
January 8, 2021
I loved Hans so much. I am devastated over his loss. My deepest condolences and love go to Jenny Anne, Galen and my dearest friend, Emma. I will especially remember Hans's sense of humor, vigor, and kindness. His memory will live in my heart forever.
Showing 1 - 29 of 29 results
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