Jonathan M. Church was a highly decorated combat veteran and avid surfer who passed away peacefully at the age of 77.
Jon had a deep love for the ocean and a passion for surfing. He was remarkably agile with determination, competing and winning his age group in the 25th Annual Rincon Classic; California Street Classic; and in the ASP Rabbit Kekai Invitational 2006 Costa Rica where he surfed with Rabbit Kekai.
Jon headed the 425th CA Battalion Family Readiness Group, where members of the Santa Barbara Surf Club gave the soldiers and their families a chance to surf. He also ran a surf program that helped to heal returning soldiers.
He had an impressive 26 year military career, rising to the esteemed rank of command sergeant major of the 425th Civil Affairs Battalion, and earning the respect of his fellow servicemen and women.
After his retirement, he really never retired. Jon served our nation with distinction both in and out of uniform. He was the beloved honorary command sergeant major of the University of California, Santa Barbara Army ROTC and touched the lives of many young cadets
Jon additionally served the community as the commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1649 and the commander of the Military Order of the World Wars.
He also had a successful career at the U.S. Post Office, working his way up to the position of supervisor and showcasing his dedication, work ethic, and leadership skills. He devoted significant time to training and mentoring others, leaving a lasting impression on his colleagues.
Jon joined the fight against wildfires in California fearlessly transporting crucial water supplies.
In his personal life, he was married to Wendy Church, the love of his life. They became inseparable companions and shared 15 unforgettable years adventuring far and near.
Jon was a treasured member of the Yoon family, Wendy’s own family. He became a father to Gia and Marlin, Wendy’s children, who cherished his presence and held him in high regard.
Military honors and a memorial service will be at 1 p.m. July 7 at Goleta Cemetery, 44 S. San Antonio Road. Please enter at the designated entrance.
A reception with refreshments will take place following the service at 3 p.m. at Santa Barbara Veterans Memorial Building, 112 W. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara. Parking is available in the Santa Barbara Harbor parking lot.
In honor of Jon’s passion for surfing, there will be a paddle-out at 11:30 a.m. July 16 at Goleta Beach Area D, 5986 Sandspit Road.
In honor of Jonathan Church’s name and in lieu of flowers, you may donate to any of the following: UC Santa Barbara, Army ROTC; Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 1649; or Santa Barbara Military Order of the World Wars.