Jon Douglas Held

October 15, 1960 - February 24, 2023

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Evangelical Covenant Church

3600 S. 9th St

Lafayette, IN 47909

Friday 3/3, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Evangelical Covenant Church

3600 S. 9th St

Lafayette, IN 47909

Saturday 3/4, 2:00 pm

Jon Douglas Held, 62, of Lafayette, went home to be with his Lord Jesus Christ on Friday, February 24, 2023 from a sudden infection following a minor medical procedure. Jon was born to Jon David & Sharon Held on October 15, 1960 in Jasper, IN. The family moved to Lafayette when Jon was in 7th grade. He earned his Eagle Scout Award, graduated from Jefferson High School in 1979 and went on to receive a B.S. in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University. He married the love of his life, Kim, in December 1985, and the years following welcomed 4 children, Kathryn, Jon David II, Anna, and Jon Calvin. They were lifelong residents of Lafayette. He served as a deacon at Immanuel Reformed Presbyterian Church spending much of his time caring for others through mercy ministry, was the presiding President of Tippecanoe Co. Right to Life, and spent many years advocating for conservative policy change.

Jon loved people deeply and demonstrated his faith through befriending, employing, and teaching individuals from all walks of life with a true spirit of grace and forgiveness. He lived his life serving his Savior by serving others, and he loved most of all to serve alongside his family. Family was incredibly important to Jon. He absolutely beamed at the mention of his children, their spouses, and rapidly growing crew of grandchildren. Jon was the family organizer who treasured spending time together, especially around a campfire, on a work project, or reading the poetry of James Whitcomb Riley. He had begun plans to build a full sized pirate ship for his grandchildren to play on and recently purchased an antique tractor for hay rides.

The most remarkable part of Jon was the love and confidence he had in knowing his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Jon lived his life in service to the Lord. He knew that his time on this earth was temporary and was confident in his eternal home with his heavenly Father. We are thankful for the promise that we have in Jesus that we will see him again in Glory.

“For thus says the Lord, he who created you….”Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1

Jon is survived by his wife, Kim (Bennett) Held of Lafayette, daughter Kathryn Dean (Christopher) of Goshen, son Jon David Held II (Meghan), Anna Allgaier (David), and Jon Calvin Held (Myra) all of Lafayette, grandchildren Caleb, Christian, Charity, and Jonah Dean, Jon David Held III (preborn), Kyla, Judah, Olivia, and Madelyn Allgaier, Maezie Held, mother Sharon Held of Lafayette, sister Gretchen Johnson (Kenton) of Carmel. He is preceded in death by his sister Kathryn Held, father J. David Held, and 7 preborn grandchildren.

Visitation: 5-8:00pm Friday, March 3, Evangelical Covenant Church of Lafayette, 3600 S 9th St, Lafayette, IN 47909

Memorial Service: 2:00pm Saturday, March 4, Evangelical Covenant Church of Lafayette, 3600 S 9th St, Lafayette, IN 47909

Contributions in Jon’s memory can be made to Immanuel Reformed Presbyterian Church, 2212 Yeager Road, West Lafayette, IN 47906 to be used toward church restoration and Christian adoptions.

Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc.

Kerri Colvin

Charles +Debbie Krummreich

Christine Corns

Jennifer Lowrey

Claudia Freed

Doug & Connie EVANS

Peter Hoffman

Misti Clark

Dawn Lueken

Kevin & Sunny Rowe

Susan Kraft

Evangelical Covenant Church

3600 S. 9th St

Lafayette, IN 47909

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Friday 3/3, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Send Flowers & Gifts

Evangelical Covenant Church

3600 S. 9th St

Lafayette, IN 47909

Map

Saturday 3/4, 2:00 pm

Send Flowers & Gifts

See Condolences

My dear friend and former resident in Jon and Kim's home, Yonggang Luo, learned only recently of Jon's passing and convey's his heartfelt condolences through correspondence. "Hi David, I found out that my former landlord in the US passed away in February this year, and I can't find any other effective way to contact his family. Could you please convey my regards for me? I was shocked and saddened when I saw the news of his death. We had six unforgettable years together. His family provided companionship when I was immersed in homesickness due to being far away from my family and homeland. When I was helpless in a foreign land, they offered me great help. I want to express my gratitude to them. Although we come from different cultural backgrounds, our hearts communicate. We all treat family, friends, and feelings of love as the most important parts of our lives. I think he was a great person, my old friend, a good friend. I will always cherish our friendship and always remember these six unforgettable years. If it's convenient for you, I would appreciate if you could convey my regards.

So sorry to hear this news. To Kim & family, God bless you and may peace and comfort come with all of the wonderful memories of Jon.

I am so sorry Kim for your loss. I truly appreciate Jon and as I look back and see all the times that I disrespect Jon I now am upset cause I know I didn't Thank him enough so please forgive me. Sincerely. Dustin Moore

Held Family! Charlie and I are so sorry for your loss. We are praying and knowing the Lord will lift you up and hug you strengthen you in this time.

First of all, I want to say how very sorry I am to the entire family who he loved so much and who loved him so much in return. I was in disbelief hearing this tragic news, but like Jon, I'm 100% confident in knowing where he is, in the company of the Lord that he loved so much. Having known Jon since our days in band in high school, I can tell you that he was one of the smartest and funniest people that I've ever known, and also one of the kindest, most grounded & confident people person I've ever met. I was blessed to count he and Kim as one of my favorite Foster Families when I worked for Child Welfare WAY back in the day! They were always willing to provide a home for those in need and those children flourished under their care. You will be sorely missed and forever remembered. God Speed, my friend.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

We mourn with you over the loss of such an awesome man, and rejoice with you that we will one day be with him again. Much love to you all.

God bless your family during this difficult time.

Bless your family in this time of intense grief and loss. You will be dearly missed!

We are so sorry for your loss. Yet, so thankful for our hope in Christ! Praying for your family ?? So sorry we were out of town for the viewing. The Steger Family

I am so very sorry for your loss

Jon was so warm and hospitable to us over 25 years ago when we were newlyweds in the Lafayette church. We still remember some of his jokes! We praise God for a life well-lived, while we mourn for your family in this great loss. Praying for you all. Much love, The Mausers

I feel like a large part of our family is gone. I am grateful that I know we will see him again in heaven but it still hurts that we won’t sit around any more picnic tables together. My prayers are with all the family that loved him as will as the many friends.

Kim and family, we were taken by surprise and saddened to hear of Jon's sudden home-going. May the Lord God bring you His comfort in the days ahead filled with grief and hard adjustments. How good to know that God has empowered and encouraged so many of your friends and fellow believers to lean on. May God grant His blessing and peace to all of you.

Forgive me for not checking the message sent earlier. Psalm 73: 23-26, is Psalm I meant to send! May God comfort you and grant you peace!

Jon was no doubt my best and closest friend in Junior High, High School, throughout my early adult years and continued to be a close friend to the present. I have enjoyed all of my time spent with him, all of his family and the friends and good times we shared. So many memories and so many laughs. I will miss him always.

To the only brother I ever had. May your memory be a blessing to all of us who loved and admired you. Your exchange student sister, Claudia Sena

When I think of Jon Held I remember his humor. He had a way of making a comment with a straight face and even tone of voice that was really a joke. Early on it took me a while to figure out that he was joking. As I got to know him I begin to pick up the subtle clues that it was a Jon Held joke. When I think of Jon, I also think of cooking. It seems like the Held clan were always providing food for someone or organizing others to provide food to meet a need. Jon was an expert on cooking pork. When I think of Jon, I remember how he and the whole Held clan welcomed people, even people some of us might have some trouble welcoming. The Helds were always willing to give people a chance. I am especially thankful for how they welcomed our adopted son, Matthew. They gave us Calvin’s outgrown winter coat to take to China with us to pick up Matthew in the month of February. They welcomed Matthew to the USA with a cake that had a road in icing on the top and toy cars on the road for Matthew to keep. Jon always tried to encourage Matthew at church or in Boy Scouts or any way he could. We told Jon that our family was indebted to him forever for taking Matthew out driving so he could accumulate the required driving experience. I know that there was at least one “harrowing experience”. We are so glad Jon didn’t die then! And so thankful that he kept to the task even after the “harrowing experience”. In gratefulness, I will be praying for Jon’s posterity for the rest of my life. Karen Carr

I first met Jon and Kim when Kathryn was around 6 months old and in a baby stroller. Soon afterward, they invited me to a Bible study at their home on 9th Street. That was where I first experienced their warm carefree honest way. Anyone who got there early was welcome to grab a plate for supper. No pretensions, no fluff, just have a seat and be part of their family. It was wonderful. It was comfortable. When I bought my first house, Jon was the one who, without my even asking, brought over his truck and plowed the snow. I was touched that he even thought of me. But that was Jon, always thinking and caring for people. When my brother-in-law's brothers got out of prison and no one would hire them, I called Jon. Yes, he had a job for them (and he cared for them, shared Jesus with them, and was honest and strong with them). Jon saw through people. He could see the need in others, when most just see the external. Jon loved our country. He wanted Christians in government, influencing policy. I became a precinct committeeman at Jon's urging. I think several others did, too. Jon cried when the National Anthem was played before a game. He had strong opinions, but you always felt loved and respected. He was safe. He was a brother. He knew Jesus and he reflected Jesus. I don't know anyone else so deeply caring. He is home with Jesus now, but he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Gail Overholser

So, so sorry to hear about Jon going to be our Lord in Heaven! We’re sure he is singing & dancing with all your family & friends that are there too! Prayers for all of you during this most difficult time of missing Jon here on earth. We know he will be missed by so many! Hugs!

The earth has lost a great man. And heaven has gained another saint. Love you brother Jon. I remember when I met Jon and Kim. They. We’re living on ninth Street. It was through Paul Rider, he and Paul we’re very close. I could tell that from the beginning of my relationship with Both of them. Jon and Kim started to attend the RPC of Lafayette.back in the early nineties. And within the tiny community of believers they did what their Lord Jesus called them to do service just as our King Jesus said if you do this to the least of these you did it to me. Jon and Kim mirrored what Jesus asked of them serving Christ Church, and the least and those outside the walls of the church. Jon walked by faith. Jon was an advocate for life inside or outside the womb. And that is apparent in the face of his children and grandchildren. Jon and Kim understood Gods command to be Fruitful and multiply. And by gods grace, may that continue to 1000 generations. Jon l miss you. Kim, David,Kathryn, Anna and Calvin may our Lord and Savior bring comfort to you all, during this difficult time. Cast your care upon Christ because he cares for you. To God be glory Jon you finished the race. Psalm 73:9-11

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

To my cousin that I always looked up to as a superhero growing up…Godspeed. Thank you for being such a bright light for everyone in this world. A smile comes to my face with ALL the wonderful memories flooding back to me now.

I am a way better person because of Jon and his Wife Kim. Some of the best parts of my life are because of the sacrifices Jon and Kim made for me as a messed up teenager. I will be forever grateful. Thank you Jon. You will be missed dearly. I’m glad I got to cut your hair and give you a hug before you went to heaven.

We are saddened to hear that Jon passed away. Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs to you all. Dan and Lori Finney

In memory of Jon Douglas Held, Dawn Lueken lit a candle

What a joy the memories you will carry of Jon until you meet him on the other side. THE ROSE BEYOND THE WALL A.L. Frink Near a shady wall a rose once grew, Budded and blossomed in God’s free light, Watered and fed by the morning dew, Shedding it’s sweetness day and night. As it grew and blossomed fair and tall, Slowly rising to loftier height, It came to a crevice in the wall Through which there shone a beam of light. Onward it crept with added strength With never a thought of fear or pride, It followed the light through the crevice’s length And unfolded itself on the other side. The light, the dew, the broadening view Were found the same as they were before, And it lost itself in beauties new, Breathing it’s fragrance more and more. Shall claim of death cause us to grieve And make our courage faint and fall? Nay! Let us faith and hope receive– The rose still grows beyond the wall, Scattering fragrance far and wide Just as it did in days of yore, Just as it did on the other side

Sharon and family so sorry for your loss ?

We love you Jon! We are thankful for your life, the ways you reflected our Savior to those around you & your hilarious personality. You brought so much laughter into each room you walked into. You were a bright light & places will not be the same without you. However, we praise God you are with Jesus!! May God get the glory. Praying for comfort & a peace that surpasses understanding for family & loved ones. You all are loved Held’s! I miss being in West La to see you. - Jess & Josh Brown

What a great loss, our thoughts and prayers are with all of you ?? RIP with Jesus Jon. Until we meet again.

Our condolences on the loss of Jon. May the Lord grace you and your family with space and time to grieve and remember him well.

I know Jon Held for long time I know Held family for long time. I used to go snow plowing with Jon. I went Reformed Presbyterian of Lafayette. Where the Held family went. Before Immanuel Reformed Presbyterian Church was former. All his of children's where at Reformed Presbyterian Church of Lafayette.

Gina and I continue to pray for you (the entire Held family) in so many different ways. We come along side of you in this time of sadness and grief, laying our human burdens, sorrows, and lack of understanding upon the almighty shoulders of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. When Christ said in Luke 9:23 "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me" Jon was the example of that for me at a very early age. There are so many memories I have with Jon and Kim that I refuse to choose a special one, as they all have eternal meaning to me. Then God brought Gina into my life and she immediately grew fond of the Helds in so many ways. The words of Christ during this time serves as a blanket of care to His people, as He holds us close to Himself, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted", Matthew 5:4 and the Psalmist plainly tells us that the "Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit" Psalm 34:18. In Christs never failing and never ending Love, David and Gina Brenneman

Hi Calvin and family, I wanted to let you know you are in my thoughts and prayers. I remember your father coming to the CC football games to watch you play. It was always nice to see him and share in watching our children enjoy their high school years. May God strengthen and comfort you through the memories. Sincerely, Mrs. Clark and family

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.