Jonathan Clemens

In many ways, life is like a blank canvas to be filled with whatever we choose based on the steps we take each day. Although the piece Jonathan Clemens created came to an abrupt halt, it was filled with hues that were as vibrant as the most spectacular sunset. He was a man who was passionate about art from his earliest years, but his heart truly beat for those he loved. Jon lived his life to its fullest while impacting the lives of many people along the way. He shared the gift of art with those who came through his classroom door looking for inspiration and wisdom from someone who was truly talented. Jon was a truly remarkable man who will be dearly missed.

By the year 1947, America was returning to a “new normal” with the end of WWII in 1945. Countless servicemen returned stateside to resume their places in the workplace and the baby boom was underway. It was during this time that Richard and Helen Clemens were experiencing an addition to their own family with the birth of their son, Jonathan, on July 30th of that year. Born and raised in southwestern Ohio in the city of Dayton, Jon was the youngest of five boys in his family including his brothers Tim, Nick, Tom, and Richard. His father owned and operated Clemens Plumbing while his mother stayed home. Jon shared a close relationship with his mother throughout his life. He enjoyed a rather typical childhood for the youth of his generation and life in the Clemens home was always something he spoke of fondly later in life. Their home was one that was often filled with laughter and fun. It was during his formative years that Jon developed a love for art and knew it would always play an important role in his life.

After graduating from local schools, Jon went on to Arizona State University where he earned a master’s degree in art. He put his education to good use teaching drawing and lithography as a part-time professor of art at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. Jon also started a business, Images Limited Edition Press, in his art studio at home producing fine lithographs. Lithography is a unique art form and a rather detailed procedure that uses a series of chemical processes to recreate an image, allowing consumers to enjoy a fine piece of art at a reasonable price. In order to supplement his income, he also worked part-time as a bartender in the Plainwell area for many years.

Several years ago, Jon met the woman who would change the course of his life forever. Her name was Rose Holecek and they met at Lakeside Studios in Lakeside, a quaint lakeshore community located in southwestern Michigan. At the time they met, Rose had an infant daughter named Vanessa from a previous relationship. From the time they met, Jon treated Vanessa as his own and helped raise her alongside her mother. Jon and Rose were together for a total of eleven years during which time they were married for three years. Although Jon and Rose eventually went their separate ways, he remained an active part of Vanessa’s life and considered her to be his daughter.

Although Jon’s interests mainly revolved around his love for art, he also enjoyed being with those he cared about. He regularly spent time with Vanessa, but he also met his friends in Wayland for coffee each morning.

With the gift of creativity, Jonathan Clemens brought light and life to the lives of those around him. He was a man of great strength who continued to embrace life even though he suffered with various health issues for many years. Jon's art was his life, but he certainly made room in his heart for loving his family and friends. He was a devoted father who worked hard doing what he loved and will be deeply missed and warmly remembered.

Jon Clemens of Shelbyville died Thursday, July 22, 2010. Members of his family include his daughter, Vanessa (Christopher) Thun, brothers Tim and Nick Clemens, and grandchildren Taylor McDonald and Lucas Thun. Jon was preceded in death by twin brothers Tom and Richard. Friends are invited to spend time with his family Wednesday from 1-3 p.m. at Orchard Hill Golf Course in Shelbyville. Please visit Jon’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can archive a memory or photo and send flowers. Arrangements by Life Story Funeral Home Plainwell, 120 S. Woodhams St (685-5881)