Obituary of Jonathan Mitchell Strain

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Jonathan Mitchell Strain (May 21, 1962 - February 11, 2025)

Jonathan Mitchell Strain, a devoted father, husband, brother, and friend, passed away tragically this past week in Scottsdale, AZ, after being struck by a car. A longtime resident of Montclair, NJ, and more recently of New York City, Jon’s life was defined by love, adventure, service to others and a deep commitment to his family and friends.

Born in Muskegon, Michigan, to Bernice Marilyn Geurkink Strain and Robert Stanley Strain, Jon grew up in Bethesda, Maryland, where he cultivated his passion for sports, friendships, and the pursuit of excellence. A gifted athlete, he played both football and lacrosse at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, before continuing his athletic career at Brown University. As a Brown Bear, he was a tenacious defenseman on the lacrosse team and a formidable force for just his freshman year on the football field. Jon graduated from Brown University in 1984 with a bachelor's degree in Economics and Organizational Behavior Studies.

Jon’s greatest love was his family. He met his late wife, Patty, in the elevator at work in Chicago, and from that moment, their love story unfolded with remarkable speed and certainty. Within a year, they were married, and soon after, they welcomed their first son, Jack, in Evanston, IL. Their journey led them to Montclair, NJ, where they built a life filled with laughter, adventure, and the joyful chaos of raising twin boys, Rob and Joe.

Jon had an insatiable curiosity for the world and a deep love for new experiences. He and his family traveled often, whether to visit family in Chicago and Arlington or to embark on unforgettable trips around the world. From safaris in Africa to ski trips out West and sun-soaked days on beaches around the globe, Jon found joy in every moment and journey. Though he cherished winter skiing and deep powder days with his sons, he was just as content on a warm beach, book in hand, margarita by his side, basking in the sun.

Sports remained a lifelong passion, not only as an athlete but as a mentor and coach. Jon dedicated countless weekends to coaching boys' lacrosse in Montclair, where he shared his wisdom and competitive spirit with young athletes. His presence at his sons’ games—energetic, enthusiastic, and unwaveringly supportive—was legendary.

Jon was a highly respected figure in commercial real estate for 40 years, known not only for his expertise but for the deep relationships he built along the way. He held senior roles at Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley, and UBS before becoming a partner at Juniper Capital and, most recently, Sail Harbor Capital. His career spanned every facet of real estate finance, from development and construction to complex capital markets and investment strategies. But beyond his professional success, Jon’s true gift was his ability to connect with people—his natural charisma turned colleagues into lifelong friends, and his network was built on trust, loyalty, and genuine relationships. He had an unmatched ability to walk into any room and leave having made a meaningful connection. Jon was also deeply committed to his community, serving on the board of trustees at his son’s school, MKA, from 2008 to 2017, as well as other organizations close to his heart. His impact, both professionally and personally, will be felt for years to come.

Jon was known for making every occasion special, often marking life’s milestones with heartfelt, elegantly crafted poems. He loved bringing people together, creating unforgettable moments, and making sure every gathering was one to remember.

Jon was predeceased by his beloved wife, Patty, in 2018, and he is now reunited with her in heaven. He leaves behind his three devoted adult sons—Jack (31) and Jack’s wife Natalie, Joe (27), and Rob (27)— his wife Kate Mullin, his brother Dan and Dan’s wife Valerie, and his sister Mary Siptroth. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his spirit will live on in the stories, traditions, and love he shared.

A funeral mass celebrating Jon’s life will be held on Saturday, February 22nd at 10 AM at Immaculate Conception Church, located at 30 North Fullerton Ave in Montclair, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the Human Needs Food Pantry of Montclair New Jersey where the Strain family volunteered for over 20 years.

Jon’s memory will forever be a source of love, laughter, and inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him.