Jonathon Benjamin Ernst

Jonathon Benjamin Ernst November 13, 1979 to June 19, 2025

JB was born in Chicago, Illinois. He lived life to the fullest in Chicago, Crystal Lake, Marengo, Woodstock, and Bensenville. Toured with the Grateful Dead and the Phish Band. Full time artist, part time land survey tech.

Educated at Pilgrim Lutheran School, Crystal Lake North Elementary school, Crystal Lake Central High school, and Art Institute of Chicago, and Life.

Observer of all things. Kind and generous, never met a kid he didn’t love. Sensitive, handsome, empathetic, kind, strong, and stubborn. Known by many names: Bubby, babe, Beej, Jonly Bonly, Jabels, Jblernst, Jabberjaws. His smile that lit up the room was loved by many.

An astute student of pop culture from his youth. A Goonie, and a die hard Psych fan. A prolific artist, painter and collector of found objects and art, JB loved creating and celebrating other artists. With a green thumb that didn’t go unnoticed, he was a frequent gardener and herbalist.

He loved people, animals, and looking out for others. He was a loving stepdad, jokester, papa to Maytal, wonderful son, brother, nephew, cousin, friend, and Kelly’s Bubs.

Survived by father Jae (John), mother June, brother Zeke (Jason), Sister-In-Law Kir ( Kirsten), Partner in Life Kelly, Uncle Paul, Uncle Rick, Aunt Dawn, Uncle Rich, Aunt Lorna, Aunt Sandy, cousins Neal, Paul, Jenny, Sarah, Jason, Josh, Hannah, Rachel, Ben, Josh, Greg, Mike, and Laura.