It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden death of our beloved son, Jonah, in Victoria, BC. Like so many people, Jonah’s death was accidental, caused by the unregulated toxic drug supply in British Columbia. He lived, he was loved and suddenly he was gone.
Jonah is survived by his mum Nuala, dad Joel, brother Elijah, sister Leora, grandfather Syd, grandmothers Sandra and Jan, as well as aunts Anna and Deborah, uncles Tim and Lorne, and cousins Micah, Rachel, Noam and Isaac. He will be missed by many other relatives and friends.
Born in Vancouver, Jonah lived in North Vancouver until 2000 when the family moved to Kamloops. Jonah moved to Victoria in 2018, after the rest of the family moved here. Jonah obtained his BC Adult Graduation Diploma and was Valedictorian of his class. He was certified as a tree faller and studied heavy duty mechanics at Thompson Rivers University. Jonah had many jobs over the years, primarily in restaurants and construction.
Jonah was a natural athlete who excelled at soccer and hockey and tried his hand at fencing, wrestling and lacrosse. He loved to ski and snowboard. He was an energetic Irish dancer for a spell and learned to play the clarinet while in elementary school. Jonah loved the outdoors where he hiked, camped, and swam. In recent years, he enjoyed learning boxing and martial arts.
Jonah was smart and had a playful disposition. He was a funny guy who liked making people laugh. His was a boisterous laugh that could fill a room. He had a big heart and a soft spot for the underdog. He was friendly and would talk to anyone. Jonah was an affectionate and loving soul always looking to connect. He loved the family dogs and his cat Noodles, who brought him joy and solace.
We would like to thank the staff at the Victoria Mental Health Centre for their care and support of Jonah since he moved to Victoria – especially Justin. Thanks to all the caring people and organizations who provided support and guidance to Jonah over the years.
Jonah was buried in the Woodlands Natural Burial Section of the Royal Oak Burial Park surrounded by his family.
A Celebration of Life for Jonah will be held in the spring.
Donations in Jonah’s memory may be made to Mental Health Recovery Partners Society-South Island www.mhrp.ca
Jonah, our bright-eyed boy, your light will shine in our hearts forever.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Stephanie Jacobs
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Lindi Riivers My deepest condolences on your heartbreaking loss. Jonah will be remembered with love.
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Ed and Samantha Thank you for sharing this notice about Jonah.
As you know, Samantha and I saw this pain everyday in our work so just know that we understand.
Love,
Ed and Samantha
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Pam and Tyler Robertson Nuala, Joel, Elijah and Leora, We were so very saddened to hear of Jonah’s tragic death. We have cherished your family’s friendship over the years and loved having you as neighbours in Kamloops. We have fond memories of Jonah – from his kind interactions, to his funny wit and the basketball games he and Elijah would have with our guys in the driveway. Your words about Jonah resonated with us – he was truly a kind soul and we know the world has lost a bright light. Sending our deepest condolences and love to you all.
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Justin It is so sad that Jonah is gone. I was blessed to be a small part of the life of this wonderful guy!
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Arn Berry Nuala, Joel and family,
Please accept my sincere condolences for your tragic loss. The toxic drug crisis is a horrible problem that needs to be addressed in a meaningful way. Stay strong.
Arn Berry
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Charles Gorrie My Sincere Sympathy on the loss of your son Jonah.
I was moved by your thoughtful obituary.
I didn’t know Jonah or his family but I have two sons. Losing him at 30 years is a true tragedy.
My kindest thoughts
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Leslie Baskerville My condolences to Joel, Nuala, Elijah and Leora, and all of the extended Hillis-Gold family. I only had the pleasure of meeting Jonah a single time on a snowy dog walk with Joel and Nuala but it was apparent even then what a gentle soul Jonah was. It is obvious he was surrounded by a loving and supportive family. I’m so sorry his life was cut short.
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Hykie Ballett My sincerest & heartfelt condolences to Nuala, Joel, Elijah & Leora as well as all the extended family.
May all the beautiful and loving memories that you all have of Jonah give you some measure of strength & comfort at this very difficult time. Yasher Koach!
Fondly Hykie
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Lisa Scott Jonah…. We had decided that we were like brother and sister. I was so proud to call you my brother You made me laugh and always had a charmingly eccentric and gentle way about you. You’re so missed not only by myself, but by many. I am so sad that we didn’t get a proper goodbye. I vividly remember going to The Mint, where you proudly announced to staff that I was your sister. A very fond memory. Rest in peace, my brother. See you in the next life or the great beyond, or whatever comes next. To the well organized mind, death is but the next great adventure.
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Claire Sorry for your loss.
Claire
We are sorry for the whole family for the loss of Jonah, and that we did not have the opportunity to get to know him better.
So pleased that in his short life, he was able to explore different avenues and opportunities of life, that he enjoyed.
Stephanie, Tony, Zachary, Jody & Laurie; part of your family in London.