Jonathan Gordonz”l was a CPA with a passion for civic engagement and a strong belief in philanthropy and community service. Over the years, Jon served on a myriad of committees, workgroups, and special projects as a strong champion of Sholom. He was also a mentor to all who had the privilege of working alongside him. Jon’s dedication led him to join Sholom Community Alliance and Sholom Foundation boards, among others. Jon’s love of community and philanthropy was infectious.
“Jon had this dry sense of humor and was extremely bright,” recalls Bob Karon, a Sholom Foundation past president, who first hired Jon when they were younger accountants. “He was instrumental in Sholom’s vision of including both Minneapolis and St. Paul communities – two cities, one organization. He really was a visionary, and just a great person.”
Chuck Selcer, a Sholom Community Alliance and Sholom Foundation past president, fondly remembers how he first met Jon, sharing: “We had been program volunteers together before becoming board members. He was incredibly kind and compassionate and would always bring tremendous passion to his work. His opinions were always well thought out, and everything he did was for the betterment of Sholom. When he raised his hand to do or offer something, how could I not join him?”
Michael Saxon, a Sholom Foundation past president, agrees. “Jon was a gentleman who never said ‘no’ to anything that could help Sholom succeed,” he says.
Whether it was volunteering to serve on executive, budget, or investment committees or showing up at special events at Sholom or in community, Jon’s warmth and passion for Sholom could be felt by all who saw him smile. To his colleagues, peers, and friends, Jon was known as a teddy bear with an enormous heart. Sholom will continue to feel his contributions and legacy for generations to come.