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Welcome to the memorial page for
Jonathan Best
October 9, 1954 ~ July 27, 2017 (age 62) 62 Years Old Light a Candle
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A candle was lit by Tricia
on August 6, 2017 10:35 PM
Message from Dom and Cindy Juliano
August 2, 2017 11:17 AM
Dear Donna,
Very few people make such a great impression on you in life; Jon was that for us. Only God knows the number of people who have been helped by him (and you) in your service to the hurting. We will never forget him and will remember you in our prayers.
Love
Dom and Cindy
Very few people make such a great impression on you in life; Jon was that for us. Only God knows the number of people who have been helped by him (and you) in your service to the hurting. We will never forget him and will remember you in our prayers.
Love
Dom and Cindy
A candle was lit by Chris Wheeler
on August 1, 2017 7:27 PM
Message from Marty Maynard
August 1, 2017 10:26 AM
My sincere condolences to Jon's family. I had the pleasure of working with Jon at CIRMA and in the emergency services. We often worked together during that time. Jon's passing will leave a large hole in the emergency management community, please know that his teachings and humor will not be forgotten.
A candle was lit by Marty Maynard
on August 1, 2017 10:23 AM
Message from Daphne Lewis
August 1, 2017 8:19 AM
Please accept my condolences Mrs. Best and family in the loss of your loved one. Praying God's blessings and strength for your family.
Message from Carol Tibor
July 31, 2017 11:38 PM
Dear Donna and family,
My deepest condolences to your entire family. I am very sad to hear of Jon's passing. He was a legend in the EMS world that no one can can replicate. He was a great leader, teacher and friend. He will be be missed by everyone. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
My deepest condolences to your entire family. I am very sad to hear of Jon's passing. He was a legend in the EMS world that no one can can replicate. He was a great leader, teacher and friend. He will be be missed by everyone. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
A candle was lit by Carol Tibor
on July 31, 2017 11:33 PM
Message from Richard Meeker, Wisconsin
July 31, 2017 11:06 PM
To the Best Family,
What a sad day for the Emergency Medical Services Profession around the world. The sudden loss and death of Jonathan Best rocks the ground we walk. I first had the honor and pleasure of being taught by Jonathan, nearly 30 years ago at the US Fire Academy during an EMS Management Course. He was an outstanding instructor. The two weeks were filled with laughter, fun, crazy stories and certainly by the end of the class, we all learned the course objectives. We remained friends all these years and even invited him several times to Wisconsin to share his expertise with other EMS leaders at conferences and planning sessions. He really was my mentor, I learned so much from him.
He touched the lives of so many young EMT’s, Paramedic’s, First Responders and Firefighters. His professional knowledge and experience taught many men and women to use his teachings in the pre-hospital setting in order to care for many people who were critically sick and injured; saving lives. Jonathan will live on in others who he taught to be competent, respectful and a caring emergency provider. He certainly will be missed by his loving family and friends. He was a kind human-being and was truly a gentleman. I am a better person for meeting him 30 years ago, he will be remembered forever.
May God bless him now as he rests in peace.
Richard Meeker, RN, EMS Chief (retired)
Kenosha, Wisconsin Fire Department and
Past President Wisconsin EMS Association
What a sad day for the Emergency Medical Services Profession around the world. The sudden loss and death of Jonathan Best rocks the ground we walk. I first had the honor and pleasure of being taught by Jonathan, nearly 30 years ago at the US Fire Academy during an EMS Management Course. He was an outstanding instructor. The two weeks were filled with laughter, fun, crazy stories and certainly by the end of the class, we all learned the course objectives. We remained friends all these years and even invited him several times to Wisconsin to share his expertise with other EMS leaders at conferences and planning sessions. He really was my mentor, I learned so much from him.
He touched the lives of so many young EMT’s, Paramedic’s, First Responders and Firefighters. His professional knowledge and experience taught many men and women to use his teachings in the pre-hospital setting in order to care for many people who were critically sick and injured; saving lives. Jonathan will live on in others who he taught to be competent, respectful and a caring emergency provider. He certainly will be missed by his loving family and friends. He was a kind human-being and was truly a gentleman. I am a better person for meeting him 30 years ago, he will be remembered forever.
May God bless him now as he rests in peace.
Richard Meeker, RN, EMS Chief (retired)
Kenosha, Wisconsin Fire Department and
Past President Wisconsin EMS Association
Message from Carolyn Carlson
July 31, 2017 9:33 PM
Jon was a dedicated and passionate emergency manager. My condolences to his family. He will be missed.
Message from Mike and Pat Fagel
July 31, 2017 5:11 PM
Donna and Family
We will always remember Jon as a true pioneer, good friend and visionary. Recall the time the teddy bear was attacked and the crime scene tape! We share in your sorrow and our heartfelt condolences.
Mike and Pat Fagel
We will always remember Jon as a true pioneer, good friend and visionary. Recall the time the teddy bear was attacked and the crime scene tape! We share in your sorrow and our heartfelt condolences.
Mike and Pat Fagel
A candle was lit by Mike and Pat Fagel
on July 31, 2017 5:05 PM
Message from Richard Meeker, Wisconsin
July 31, 2017 2:41 PM
To the Best Family,
What a sad day for the Emergency Medical Services Profession around the world. The sudden loss and death of Jonathan Best rocks the ground we walk. I first had the honor and pleasure of being taught by Jonathan, nearly 30 years ago at the US Fire Academy during an EMS Management Course. He was an outstanding instructor. The two weeks were filled with laughter, fun, crazy stories and certainly by the end of the class, we all learned the course objectives. We remained friends all these years and even invited him several times to Wisconsin to share his expertise with other EMS leaders at conferences and planning sessions. He really was my mentor, I learned so much from him.
He touched the lives of so many young EMT’s, Paramedic’s, First Responder's and Firefighters. His professional knowledge and experience taught many men and women to use his teachings in the pre-hospital setting in order to care for many people who were critically sick and injured; saving lives. Jonathan will live on in others who he taught to be competent, respectful and a caring emergency provider. He certainly will be missed by his loving family and friends. He was a kind human-being and was truly a gentleman. I am a better person for meeting him 30 years ago, he will be remembered forever.
May God bless him now as he rests in peace.
Richard Meeker, RN, EMS Chief (retired)
Kenosha, Wisconsin Fire Department and
Past President Wisconsin EMS Association
What a sad day for the Emergency Medical Services Profession around the world. The sudden loss and death of Jonathan Best rocks the ground we walk. I first had the honor and pleasure of being taught by Jonathan, nearly 30 years ago at the US Fire Academy during an EMS Management Course. He was an outstanding instructor. The two weeks were filled with laughter, fun, crazy stories and certainly by the end of the class, we all learned the course objectives. We remained friends all these years and even invited him several times to Wisconsin to share his expertise with other EMS leaders at conferences and planning sessions. He really was my mentor, I learned so much from him.
He touched the lives of so many young EMT’s, Paramedic’s, First Responder's and Firefighters. His professional knowledge and experience taught many men and women to use his teachings in the pre-hospital setting in order to care for many people who were critically sick and injured; saving lives. Jonathan will live on in others who he taught to be competent, respectful and a caring emergency provider. He certainly will be missed by his loving family and friends. He was a kind human-being and was truly a gentleman. I am a better person for meeting him 30 years ago, he will be remembered forever.
May God bless him now as he rests in peace.
Richard Meeker, RN, EMS Chief (retired)
Kenosha, Wisconsin Fire Department and
Past President Wisconsin EMS Association
A With Distinction was sent on July 31, 2017
Dear Donna, We are so sorry to hear about Jon. We still truly appreciate and vividly remember the two of you joining us in Toronto years ago. Please accept our condolences and our apologies for not being able to see you in person. Best Wishes, Min Kang and Jackie
Message from Patty & Bob Ulatowski
July 31, 2017 1:24 PM
Donna,
I will always treasure the numerous times Jon and I talked about his mayoral campaign. He was so full of wonderful ideas and plans for the town. Always a professional, always respectful, always praising. Next to you, Stratford was his love. So very sorry for your tremendous loss. The accolades pouring in are most deserving and I hope they give you provide you with some comfort at this very difficult time. Do not hesitate to call if I can assist you in any way.
I will always treasure the numerous times Jon and I talked about his mayoral campaign. He was so full of wonderful ideas and plans for the town. Always a professional, always respectful, always praising. Next to you, Stratford was his love. So very sorry for your tremendous loss. The accolades pouring in are most deserving and I hope they give you provide you with some comfort at this very difficult time. Do not hesitate to call if I can assist you in any way.
A candle was lit by Patty & Bob Ulatowski
on July 31, 2017 1:18 PM
Message from John S. Perry
July 31, 2017 12:06 PM
To Donna and family, i send my sincere love and condolences to you and the entire Best Family, I am truly saddened to hear of the passing of a great friend and co-worker...John was a mentor, teacher and most of all a great friend. I will truly miss him and I thank God for allowing me to meet a person of this magnitude. My prayers are with the Best family.....
Message from Kim Ploszaj
July 31, 2017 9:31 AM
My sincerest condolences to Jon's family. As an emergency responder myself, I commend the work that he's accomplished during his career. Gone too soon. May his legacy pave the way for those that continue to carry forward his work.
May peace be with his entire family.
May peace be with his entire family.
Message from Peter and Debbie Rusatsky
July 31, 2017 7:23 AM
Will be fondly missed. A great loss to all. Our prayers for family and friends.
A candle was lit by Joseph Filakovsky
on July 31, 2017 7:14 AM
Message from Joseph Filakovsky
July 31, 2017 7:14 AM
It was my honor to know and work with Jon in various capacities during his time with the Connecticut Department of Public Health. He was a tireless worker, a committed public servant and a really nice guy. We have lost a giant..............
A candle was lit by Ingrid Shaw
on July 30, 2017 11:29 PM
Message from SETH CARLEY
July 30, 2017 11:15 PM
DONNA AND FAMILY ,
MY DEEPEST SINCERE THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS TO YOU ALL , DONNA YOU AND JOHN WERE QUITE A TEAM. YOU BOTH DEDICATED YOUR LIVES TO BE THERE FOR OTHERS WHEN HELP WAS WHAT THEY NEEDED ,YOUR TEACHINGS TAUGHT SO MANY HOW TO SERVE PEOPLE IN DESPERATE SITUATIONS AND WERE A BEACON OF WARM LIGHT THAT PEOPLE GREW TO LOVE AND RESPECT SO MUCH WAS LEARNED AND SHARED FROM YOU BOTH . MY DEEPEST THOUGHTS AND MOST OF ALL PRAYERS FOR YOU BOTH. MAY GOD GIVE YOU STRENGTH DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME. MUCH LOVE ,,,,,SETH CARLEY
MY DEEPEST SINCERE THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS TO YOU ALL , DONNA YOU AND JOHN WERE QUITE A TEAM. YOU BOTH DEDICATED YOUR LIVES TO BE THERE FOR OTHERS WHEN HELP WAS WHAT THEY NEEDED ,YOUR TEACHINGS TAUGHT SO MANY HOW TO SERVE PEOPLE IN DESPERATE SITUATIONS AND WERE A BEACON OF WARM LIGHT THAT PEOPLE GREW TO LOVE AND RESPECT SO MUCH WAS LEARNED AND SHARED FROM YOU BOTH . MY DEEPEST THOUGHTS AND MOST OF ALL PRAYERS FOR YOU BOTH. MAY GOD GIVE YOU STRENGTH DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME. MUCH LOVE ,,,,,SETH CARLEY
A candle was lit by Robert & Jane Larned
on July 30, 2017 9:20 PM
Message from Robert & Jane Larned and family
July 30, 2017 9:19 PM
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all during this difficult time. Jonathan was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed by all.
Message from Bob Elling
July 30, 2017 9:17 PM
So sorry for the family's sudden loss. Jon was a friend and partner in Rockaway and we went to medic school together. Some of my wildest and fondest memories of NYC in the seventies included Jon. He went on to do great things for all who were fortunate to know him. Rest In Peace my friend.
Message from Amy Stillman Hurley
July 30, 2017 7:57 PM
To the Best Family: I am sorry for your loss. I had the fortune of meeting your husband/father through my own many years ago. Jonathan was a wonderful man. My condolences and prayers to all of you.
Message from Anna & Corey Clabby
July 30, 2017 6:29 PM
We are so sorry for your loss, our deepest condolences.
A candle was lit by Carole
on July 30, 2017 4:04 PM
A candle was lit by Jim Hutchison
on July 30, 2017 2:55 PM
Message from vito labella
July 30, 2017 1:23 PM
Jonathan was my partner in Far Rockaway, he was always one of the good guys. He will not be forgotten.
May his soul rest in peace in the hands of the Lord.
May his soul rest in peace in the hands of the Lord.
A candle was lit by vito labella
on July 30, 2017 1:21 PM
Message from Kevin Gallagher
July 30, 2017 12:27 PM
To John's family, my sincerest condolences on your loss. I served with John in the State EOC from time to time over the years. As our areas of involvement sometimes overlapped, we very often worked together on Emergency Management related issues.
Message from Donald Izzo
July 30, 2017 10:40 AM
The Best Family....sending you thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Many thanks to John for his service affiliation with emergency management and the many other positions he served.
Donald Izzo,
Emergency Management Director
Town of Westbrook
Donald Izzo,
Emergency Management Director
Town of Westbrook
Message from Beth Renkowsky
July 30, 2017 10:30 AM
Sincere condolences Donna and all of Jonathan's family and friends .
Message from Tony Schirillo
July 30, 2017 9:51 AM
Donna, so very sorry for your loss. There are no words that can comfort. Just know that you and your family are in our prayers. His dedication to service was appreciated and touched many in a positive way.
Message from Judi Schack
July 30, 2017 9:44 AM
Dear Donna and family: I am so sorry to hear of Jon's passing. He was a great guy who most generously gave to all. I had the honor of "riding" with him early in my time at Stratford EMS and so admired his genuine concern for people at their most vulnerable time. He touched so many lives as a teacher and on-going mentor to us at EMS. He will be missed at our table at
R & R where we all enjoy the common bond of EMS, friendship, love and laughter, where we loved listening to the stories of his life's experiences -- and these were endless because he lived life to the fullest every day. He somehow had the gift of being serious and funny all in the same sentence. I know he will be missed as a husband, father and grandfather and to all of you, my deepest condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
R & R where we all enjoy the common bond of EMS, friendship, love and laughter, where we loved listening to the stories of his life's experiences -- and these were endless because he lived life to the fullest every day. He somehow had the gift of being serious and funny all in the same sentence. I know he will be missed as a husband, father and grandfather and to all of you, my deepest condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Message from David, Laura & Nicholas Federico
July 30, 2017 9:01 AM
Donna and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We will hold you in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
We are so sorry for your loss. We will hold you in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
Message from Jeffrey
July 30, 2017 8:54 AM
To the Best family. I am sorry for your loss. May Jon rest in peace.
Jeffrey Skene.
Jeffrey Skene.
Message from Gary Wiemokly
July 30, 2017 8:44 AM
Donna and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Jon was a great man and he was so proud of his loving family. I treasure the time he and and I worked together and shared laughter together, thank you for sharing him with the rest of us. You've all made the world a better place.
I hope the good memories and knowledge of his positive impact in the world will give you some peace during this difficult time.
My most sincere condolences,
Gary
I hope the good memories and knowledge of his positive impact in the world will give you some peace during this difficult time.
My most sincere condolences,
Gary
Message from Thom Dick
July 30, 2017 8:08 AM
To Donna and the Best family,
Sometimes we forget how much the families of great servants share of themselves, their privacy and their own personal happiness in order for these Bright Lights to shine. Thank you, each and every one of you, on behalf of your country and all of us. Please accept this simple wish for your own peace in years to come, and know that Jonathan did what so many never care to do, making the world a better place for others. May we all get to see him again, some day.
Sometimes we forget how much the families of great servants share of themselves, their privacy and their own personal happiness in order for these Bright Lights to shine. Thank you, each and every one of you, on behalf of your country and all of us. Please accept this simple wish for your own peace in years to come, and know that Jonathan did what so many never care to do, making the world a better place for others. May we all get to see him again, some day.
A candle was lit by Don Birou, NCBRT / LSU
on July 29, 2017 9:39 PM
My sincere condolences and prayers.
Jonathan was a long time friend and fellow instructor who's passion and committed to the emergency responder community and the safety of all never waned. He will be missed by everyone, but especially within the emergency services family.
My sincere condolences and prayers.
Jonathan was a long time friend and fellow instructor who's passion and committed to the emergency responder community and the safety of all never waned. He will be missed by everyone, but especially within the emergency services family.
Message from Sharon Tappe
July 29, 2017 8:18 PM
To all of the Best Family, I am truly sorry for your loss. He was an amazing Man. He made such a difference in so many people's lives.
Message from Mike Grosso
July 29, 2017 7:56 PM
I really enjoyed working with and learning from you Jon. It has truly been an honour to have known both you and Donna. Please do not hesitate to consult upon me. I am sorry I cannot be present but do know you are thought of and will be greatly missed. So long, Captain.
A candle was lit by Donna Calandro
on July 29, 2017 7:06 PM
Donna & family I am so very sorry to hear of Jon's passing. He was a very special MAN. I will always remember & cherish all our talks at SnS Pharmacy. I was the lucky one to have met him & was able to call my friend. You & your family are in my prayers. Please may all your memories of Jon comfort you always💖💖
Donna & family I am so very sorry to hear of Jon's passing. He was a very special MAN. I will always remember & cherish all our talks at SnS Pharmacy. I was the lucky one to have met him & was able to call my friend. You & your family are in my prayers. Please may all your memories of Jon comfort you always💖💖
Message from John Therina
July 29, 2017 6:32 PM
To the family my sincerest condolences.
Rest In Peace my friend.
Rest In Peace my friend.
A candle was lit by John Therina
on July 29, 2017 6:29 PM
Message from Cheryl Overton
July 29, 2017 6:27 PM
My sincere condolences to you and yours. Jonathan was a great man and will be dearly missed. We met at an NAEMT conference through Mary Ann Talley years ago. I pray for strength and comfort for y'all ... God bless!
Message from Mark Lockhart
July 29, 2017 5:38 PM
Donna and family - I was honored to serve with Jon on the NAEMT board and as officers of the association. More importantly I was proud to call him my friend. I always appreciated his wisdom and insight throughout our tenure with NAEMT. I remember several discussions where I got the "glance over the glasses" and the "you know what I mean?" - that was usually a hint to take a minute and think about what he had just said. So many times that resulted in a clearer understanding or a different perspective that was important. Jon was an amazing professional and above all, an incredible human being. He made a difference on so many fronts and in so many lives - mine included. His influence will be felt for years to come. My thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the weeks and months ahead. I share your grief and offer you my heartfelt sympathy - with love,
Mark Lockhart
Mark Lockhart
Message from Eugen and Kathy Hul
July 29, 2017 5:11 PM
Donna and Family, words can not express the shock of hearing of Jonathan's passing. He was a leader in our field and a friend. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and the family.
A candle was lit by MIke Cook
on July 29, 2017 4:34 PM
Message from Amy White
July 29, 2017 4:04 PM
Rest in Peace, Jon. You were a great example of someone who lived and loved his profession and passed that love along to others. You are gone way too soon. You will never be forgotten. My sincerest condolences to Donna and all your family and friends.
Message from Kelly and Deane Moss
July 29, 2017 2:32 PM
Donna and Family please accept our deepest sympathies on the passing of John. He was a great and smart man . I will always cherish the talks and calls I had with him ,may all the memories you all have of him continue to be a comfort to you.
Message from Emily Masters
July 29, 2017 2:25 PM
Donna, please accept my most sincere condolences for you and your family. The help and friendship offered by both you and Jon so many years ago has never been forgotten. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I will always be grateful. So very, very sad for your loss.
A candle was lit by Kelly and Deane Moss
on July 29, 2017 2:19 PM
Message from Gordon MacCalla
July 29, 2017 2:01 PM
My condolences to Donna and the family. He has been a mentor, teacher and friend to many, as well as a family man. May you Rest In Peace Jon. You definitely left your mark.
A candle was lit by Gordon MacCalla
on July 29, 2017 1:56 PM
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