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BORN
1987
DIED
2017
Jonathan Harms Obituary
August 6, 1987 - February 26, 2017
Jonathan's too-short life was filled with joy, love for his family and friends, enthusiasm for each day and intellectual curiosity. When Jonny entered a room, it brightened and people were drawn to him as he gave his all to ensure that his family and friends felt his love every moment. His positive attitude and courage were greatly admired as he endured almost constant pain. He would say that any day he wasn't sick in bed was a great day and this positive attitude was inspirational.Jonathan greatly cared about social justice and protecting the environment. His love of the outdoors and nature and his joy in enjoying our beautiful earth inspired all. The inside of his car was lined with fur from his dog and sand from the beach. The beach was his favorite place at sunset and he brought his loved ones with him to share it whenever he could. The serenity of being by the ocean filled his soul with beauty and calm, and swimming in the ocean and frozen lakes (no matter its temperature) invigorated him. Jon was an adventurer and his curiosity about other cultures and countries was boundless. He traveled extensively and each new experience broadened his life's perspective.
Jonathan's passing is mourned by his parents, Celia and Terry Harms, his brothers, David and fiancée, Mandy Roman, Adam and fiancée, Keika Yamaguchi, and beloved girlfriend, Amanda Tachis, his grandmother, Albine Bech, and many loving family members and friends.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 3 at 10 AM at Peninsula Temple Beth El, 1700 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to the Ocean Conservancy, www.oceanconservancy.org.
May his memory be a blessing.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jonathan Harms
March 9, 2017
I am so sorry to hear about Jonathan. I wish I
could have met him as a young man. I might of met him as a small child at Horty's.
I love the fact that he felt the ocean and beach as his peaceful place with nature.
What a wonderful spirit, you can look at his eyes to see that joy.
Again, my condolences to all of you.
Love, Dotty
Scott Schonfeld
March 5, 2017
Jon - I just heard from David Miller. I cannot fathom this. I knew you such a short while but I suspect my experience knowing you was hardly unique: you made such an instantaneously powerful impact upon me, your personality and humor were and are larger than life. I will always remember fondly so many good laughs with you. I will miss you. My deepest most profound condolences to his family and friends. - Scott Schonfeld
TJ Ratana
March 4, 2017
Jon- I'm heartbroken - you were so kind to me and our team at Eaze. Your energy and smile were infectious and I will truly miss your presence. Thank you for teaching me how to live every day like it was my first. Hoping you the best on your next big adventure - much love
Dee Pierron
March 3, 2017
To the Harms family: No words express the ache in our hearts for you. We offer prayers that you may be held in the arms of comforting angels as you travel this journey. His life was indeed a blessing to all who were gifted with his joyful presence. With love, the Pierron Family. (Kirk, Clark, Dee & Mark)
Leslie Ewing
March 3, 2017
I am so saddened to learn of your great loss. I well remember Jon as a darling little boy, who was often in Caitlin's class throughout their years at Highlands. He was a treasure, and I know he will be terribly missed. You raised a fine young man, of whom I know you were very proud. Jon's was a life well-lived.
Fondly,
Leslie Ewing
Lisa St Clair
March 2, 2017
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I worked with Jon at SVB and although I haven't been in touch in years, Jon always had me smiling and laughing . He had a way of making everything A-ok! He was sweet and kind and oh so handsome. He will be greatly missed! I am deeply saddened for your loss. May God Bless you and give you strength as you go through this untimely passing of your son. Rest In Peace Jon!
With love,
Lisa St Clair
March 2, 2017
Dear family, love and prayers are with you. What Iris and Eva, Menlo pals, spoke about so much was Jon's kindness, his huge heart. I remember his humor - he always made me laugh laugh laugh. He was a light in this world, and will always shine in many lives. Victoria Alden
Miriam, Jeff & Michele Counts
March 2, 2017
I am in shock! So so sorry for the loss of Jonathan. My heart aches for you all and I will be continuously praying for comfort, grace, compassion as you go thru this difficult time. Always, with love,
Anne Pereira
March 2, 2017
To the Harms family - Ed and I are saddened to hear of your son's passing. It makes no sense. We will keep all of you in our prayers and ask God for comfort for your family. May his wonderful memories sustain you. I'm sorry we never met - he sounds like a joy in everyone's life. Our sincere condolences. Mandy's Aunt and Uncle
March 1, 2017
Dear Celia and Terry,
Jennifer Benelli, kindergarten teacher to Jonathan remembers him at age 5. One favorite memory was his entire body language during a Thanksgiving film about turkeys. When he saw all the little hatchlings, he bolted up onto his knees, clasped his hands together upon his chest as a huge smile crossed his face. He was enthralled and filled with adoration for small creatures and life. And recess, outside room 2 at Highlands? While that was a while ago, remember how he and his 5 year old friends would organize themselves to play football games? He was a person you totally engaged in living and appreciating life. This was already clear in 1992. I know that his presence in our world made it a more inclusive, appreciative, and collaborative place.
I send you and Jonny's brothers and future sister in laws my deepest condolences.
I will honor his life in Shul on Friday.
With love,
Jennifer Benelli
Amanda Lee
March 1, 2017
Dear Celia,
My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. What a handsome and thoughtful young man your son became. I am saddened for your great loss.
With love,
Amanda Lee
Stef Caon Del Negro
March 1, 2017
To the Harms family and Amanda,
I want to extend my deepest condolences for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this extremely difficult time. Jon had this way of bringing light into the room. He helped me significantly during difficult times, and would always remind to just keep smiling, no matter what. His joie de vivre, kindness, and sense of adventure, is something I will always remember, and carry with me. May he rest in peace.
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