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From Benjamin Morency:

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I'm incredibly sad to learn that Jonah Poplove is gone for a better world. I had the great chance to know the great person you are and play with you at NYO. Rest in peace brother and may God welcome you with open arms in Heaven

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From Kathryn Koch:

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Heartbroken to hear of the passing of Jonah Poplove. I had the privilege playing in a quintet with him for a semester and getting to know him during my time in Ottawa. He was a great player, but above all I remember him being a solid, genuine, person with a good heart. Although he left us too soon, his kind spirit and beautiful artistry will not be forgotten. 

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From Paul Walde:

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Very sorry to learn of the passing of Jonah Poplove. Here he is (on the left) performing in the Tom Thomson Centennial Swim this past July. Thomson played the mandolin and Jonah gave voice to this. 
Being in the creative fields is difficult and dangerous work on many levels and demands a lot of us as we continue to put ourselves out there. Jonah did this. Be bold, be courageous, but please be safe everyone.

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From Gilchrist Davies:

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Very saddened to hear of the passing of Jonah Poplove. I only met him recently but was astounded by his talent and intellect. I wish I'd gotten the chance to know him better.

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From Kyle Burghout:

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I am so incredibly sad to learn of the passing of my dear friend Jonah Poplove. I am in shock, and cannot imagine a world without him.

Jonah was an amazing person, who I am honoured to have known for the past decade. He was a great friend, musician, and so much more. Jonah was brilliant at everything he did, and I’m lucky to have so many great memories to remember him by. I have learnt so much from him, and will always remember the many times we made music together—from Room131 of Canterbury High School to street corners in downtown Ottawa to halfway around the world in Ireland and Italy, playing everything from string quartets to fiddle tunes to improvising—and how special those moments were. Thank you Jonah for all our years of friendship and music-making. I will never forget the wonderful memories we have together, and you will continue to inspire me and my music for many years to come.

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From Heather Stewart:

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Very sad to hear about Jonah Poplove's passing. He was an unforgettable character. What happened to Jonah highlights the need for better mental health education, understanding, and support for young people. My condolences to his family.

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From Daphne Manavopoulos:

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Jonah, I will always fondly remember the endless hours we spent talking, your infectious energy in class, your love of giving advice, and the meals we shared. 
I wish I'd known how you were suffering. It's a reminder that we never know what is going on in someone's mind. To all my friends, no matter how close we are or how often we're in touch, I'm always here if you need to talk, vent, or even a shoulder to cry on.
Jonah, I didn't know you for long, but you will be missed. My thoughts are with all your loved ones. Rest easy, my friend

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From Miles Thomsen:

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I try not to be a regretful person but if I had to name my biggest regret it would be not taking more time to connect more sincerely with people. It can be hard to find the energy sometimes, particularly in a business or stage of life where you are constantly interacting with new people, but things like this remind me that every interaction can carry weight - every act of loving kindness can make someone's day, or life, that much better. I didn't get to know Jonah Poplove - kind, sincere, gentle, and genuine Jonah - as well as I would have liked but I will do my best to remember him in all my future interactions. Let's all keep our hearts and minds open, and connect with people as much for our own sakes as for theirs. And who knows? If every interaction was guided by genuine love and empathy, I believe that would change the world more than anything.

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From Chelsea Assaf:

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I've been struggling to find the words all day, but I don't think there's such thing as the "right words" for something like this. My heart has been heavy all day after hearing about the passing of Jonah . Over my three years at uOttawa, we shared countless classes and volunteered together. I've had various memories hitting me all day, but the thing in common with them all is how he was not only an incredibly talented musician, but was such a genuine, kind-hearted person who's smile lit up every room he entered and who's laugh was positively infectious.

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His untimely passing is a reminder to us all that you never know what's going on behind the closed doors of someone else's mind. If any of you out there are struggling in any way and you need someone to talk to/ vent to/ someone to listen to you/ someone to distract you/ anything at all, or even if you just want to catch up, please please please don't hesitate to reach out. I don't care if we talk every week or haven't talked in ten years, even if I may be geographically far, I'm always just a message or phone call away.

Sending all of my love to his family and friends in this impossibly difficult time.

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From Amy Desrosiers:

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Jonah Poplove, I am so sorry you were in so much pain. You were incredibly passionate, talented, kind, and most of all, loved loved loved by so many.

We lost one of our own yesterday in this little world called music.

Friends. ALWAYS comfort, support, and listen for those silent cries for help. It will save someone's life.

Jonah, my dear friend, rest in peace.

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From Pascal Viens:

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Jonah Poplove was a beautiful person. His smile and positivity brightened the days of so many people.

Through music, he laughed and cried with us. I will never forget the time and music we've shared, and I hope wherever you are now treats you better than this world did.

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From Anna Gibbons:

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The loss of Jonah Poplove has reminded me of the power of kindness. He and I were in a few of the same classes during one of the darkest times of my life. I was afraid of everything and everyone; a kind word or smile was not just welcomed, but needed to get through the day, and Jonah always had one to share. I hope you have found peace and happiness, Jonah. 

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From Kate Marland:

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So devastated and shocked by the passing of my dear friend Jonah Poplove. There is no doubt in my mind that I would not be where I am today if it were not for his presence in my life. Starting out at a young age as violinists with Leslie Wade, he was a constant figure in my musical life, always inspiring me to be a better musician, a better leader and a better person. 
No matter where I went, whether it was the Ottawa Youth Orchestra, the NAC's YAP, U of O, he was there to challenge me to take my musicianship to a higher level. Whenever I needed to get a second opinion on a bowing or was questioning my intonation, he was always there to listen and was not afraid to call me out and give me the kick in the pants I often needed. Jonah's stamp of approval was the gold standard to me and his encouragement pushed me to achieve things I never thought were possible. For this, I will forever be grateful to him.

His impact on my life, and the lives of so many in the music community, will never be forgotten.

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From Gregory D. Couture:

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Remembering Jonah Poplove, an incredible musician and inspiring human being all-around. Your smile was contagious and your gentle soul was so admired by many. May you Rest In Peace.

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From Rachael Jewell:

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So sad to hear about the passing of Jonah Poplove ...it seems like we can keep saying that there is always someone who loves and cares about you, but you'll never know what someone is truly going through. I suggest you reach out to someone you haven't talked to in a long time today. Just knowing you thought about them can make their day...sometimes that's all it takes

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From Angelique Baron-Brunet:

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It breaks my heart to know that you're gone. Depression is relentless and unforgiving. It's unyielding and unapologetic. It does not discriminate. Your mind betrayed you and its not fair. Life isnt fair. You radiated positive energy and kindness; that is what I'll remember most. You will be missed, Jonah. ♡

If you are struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please seek help. I have found that the best resources are the Ottawa Distress and Crisis help-line and the Psych Emerg at the General Hospital. It's very difficult to make yourself heard but please, fight for your right to live, not just exist. I'm always here and I mean that. Don't be afraid to talk about your struggle and ask for help. Being brave isn't about being unafraid, it's about being afraid and doing it anyway. Jonah fought hard and I commend him for that.

Rest easy

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From Jessica Sharkey:

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Jonah Poplove you were one of the first people to tell me it was okay to not be okay. You were so kind, intelligent, and talented. It breaks my heart that you're gone. Rest In Peace.

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From Sabina Franklyn:

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Deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Jonah Poplove. I was lucky to have classes with Jonah throughout our undergrad at uOttawa.

Whether it was during human neuropsychology crossing our fingers not to be called up to label the MRI in front of the class that day, even though he would ace it every time, or spending an entire class trying to achieve the rubber hand illusion so we could write about it. Jonah was the kind of person that made these things better.

Kind, intelligent, motivated, thoughtful, hilarious, he was all of those things.

I will always regret that we never became more than just school friends and think of all of the opportunities that I should have reached out.

This will forever be a lesson that even the most put together people with the brightest looking futures ahead of them can be struggling with something like this and even though you may not be very close and it may not seem like your place, always reach out, be open and be approachable because you never know what they could be dealing with.

Rest in peace Jonah, and my condolences to all of his family and friends. I can’t imagine what you must be going through right now, I’m so sorry for your loss.

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From Susan Elizabeth:

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Jonah Poplove my heart breaks for your family. I'm completely shocked and deeply sad to hear about your passing. I had no idea you were suffering so much and I am so sorry. You were a beautiful soul with an amazing smile and infectious laugh. This is a terrible tragedy.

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From Brigit O'Regan:

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I am incredibly sad to announce the passing of Jonah Poplove. I've known him since we were about 10, playing in orchestra and Suzuki violin concerts together and we all watched him work his way to the top and eventually pass on his knowledge to so many bright students as a teacher.

He will be missed as a friend, colleague, and just a lovely and positive force by myself and many people all around the world. And hopefully, through this tragedy, it will lead to more openness about emotional and mental health, especially in the artist communities where so many .are vulnerable.

Rest in Peace.

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From Aline Vartanian:

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My heart is so sad to hear the news of Jonah Poplove's passing yesterday. You maybe meet someone like Jonah once in your lifetime and I am so blessed to have known him. He was such a dear friend and no matter the distance or time that had gone by, he always skyped me and we would have long talks about life. Jonah, you are such a special soul and will be missed dearly. Rest in the sweetest peace 

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From Michael Langford:

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Thinking of my family in 2016’s NYO Canada.

I’m absolutely heartbroken to hear of Jonah Poplove’s passing yesterday. He was an extraordinary violist and a warm and caring stand partner. There’s nobody else I’d rather have played Prokofiev 5 with. I’m utterly distraught it all had to end so soon.

Rest in peace.

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From Carolyn Farnand:

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Today we celebrate the life of Jonah Poplove. I type these words with a heavy heart. 
The world lost an incredible person. Words cannot do any justice to the way Jonah influenced the lives around him. 
When I was sixteen, we sat as stand partners at Canterbury for the first time. I remember always feeling so at ease and inspired... it was hard not to around him. Jonah was so musical and caring, but would also gently kick my ass if I was slacking. 
Our youth orchestra went on a Italy trip, and he had a pretty big solo in one of the pieces. It was always played from the heart- vulnerable and passionate. I was sitting at the very back of the viola section and I can still feel the way that music poured out. That was one of the moments I knew I wanted to pursue music, and I owe so much of that inspiration to Jonah.

In 2016, I had the honour of playing in the National Youth Orchestra of Canada with Jonah. It was so exciting to be at a music festival, years later, with someone I looked up to so much in high school. He discovered that the fries were incredibly delicious at CaliBurger, so whenever we discovered ourselves both left in the practice rooms, we would head over there to indulge in some greasy burgers and fries. He would make me go, even when I wanted to practice more. He would chide me on taking care of myself and insist this greasy food was a necessary break and a form of self-care. The chats at CaliBurger were always random - we'd talk about our partners, or the last book he was reading, or something his therapist had said to him, or the last good cup of coffee I had, or how he was feeling that day, or whatever was on his mind. Thank you for making both of us take care of ourselves that summer.

He was someone that breathed kindness, gave away love like nothing and cared for the people in his life. I looked up to you so much, as did pretty much everyone who knew you. Thank you for the memories Jonah, I will cherish them forever. Thank you for sharing your art, your soul, your love, your heart. I am so sorry you had this struggle. 
I hope you can finally be at peace.

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From Caroga Lake Music Festival:

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 We are incredibly saddened to hear the heartbreaking news that our friend, colleague, extraordinary musician and CLMF family member, Jonah Poplove has passed away this morning. Jonah brought such a bright presence and optimism to our group and his family expressed to me how happy, comfortable and at home he felt with all of us at the music festival, and how grateful and thankful they all were for our time with him. I personally recall his passion for teaching students-memories of him working and performing for young kids at the YMCA in Schenectady, Nigra Center, FMCC during his time with the festival in addition to his amazing covers that he arranged featuring him singing and playing violin/viola. His presence and knowledge as an individual was valued and so positive. We will miss him very much and send our condolences to his family. Please see the post below for more details regarding his memorial. Thank you Jonah Poplove for bringing your love, enthusiasm and energy to all of us. 

 

http://carogalakemusicfestival.org/2017-artists/

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From Kyle Price:

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Jonah, we all miss you very much. You always brightened my day at Caroga Lake Music Festival and brightened the lives of everyone you interacted with through your enthusiasm, knowledge and compassion. Miss you man.

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From Michael Tsang:

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Jonah, you will be greatly missed. Although I was only able to see you again for a day in Caroga Lake, I am thankful I had this opportunity to catch up with you and learn about all the amazing things you've done over the years. I always admired how knowledgeable and compassionate you are, and you impacted the lives of so many through your love of music and teaching. You are an incredible person, and your influence will continue to live on through all of your fellow musicians and friends.

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From Leanne Vaillancourt:

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I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Jonah Poplove. I never would have expected this. All my memories of Jonah were positive starting from when I first met him at Canterbury High School. I bumped into him recently and caught up with him a bit. It's so sad that it's the last time I'll get to see him. My heart goes out to all his family and friends. Jonah will be missed.

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From Gabrielle Skinner:

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You were one of the warmest people I knew in undergrad, and I’m so sad to hear that you’re gone. Love you Jonah—

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From Olga Rykov:

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May you find peace, Jonah. Some of us were not there for you when you needed us. 
My condolences to Jonah's loved ones and close friends

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From Dani Antoinette:

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Jonah - I am incredibly saddened to hear of your passing. We had lost touch for a couple years, but it was such a pleasure to reconnect over the summer. I am so sorry that we were not able to grab another coffee together. You rekindled my love of music and helped to remind me to step back and enjoy the small wonders around me. I hope that you have found peace. My condolences to your family and loved ones. 

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From Marlena Pellegrino:

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Dear Jonah,

So so beyond sad to hear of your passing. Our communities (UOttawa, NYO, OSO) have lost a great musician and wonderfully positive and kind person. I am heartbroken that it came to this. Rest in Power

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From Ola Jab:

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I can't even imagine the pain loved ones, family and friends must feel at this beyond heartbrkeaing time. I remember first meeting Jonah at CHEO hospital in Ottawa when we worked there together in the same office one summer. I remember him being very friendly, always laughing and making others laugh and he was very passionate about music. He made office times fun with our gang in the office. For some reason I had a feeling to reach out to him the other night or something like that, even though I haven't spoken to him in few years and now I regret not reaching out. RIP I am so sorry for your loss even though sorry does not help right now. Sending prayers to him, his family and all his loved ones.

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From Matthew Chaffey:

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Much love to Jonah's family. What a talent. I'll never forget the gig we played together last summer.

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From Anita Pari:

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Dear Jonah,
I feel truly lucky to have had the chance to meet you in the Ottawa music community. Whether it was during the NAC's Summer Music Institute, or at The Leading Note, you were friendly and so kind. My heartfelt condolences to your family and loved ones.

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From Tess Casubuan:

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All too quickly,
those day of childhood have come and gone, but the memories of those times are as clear in my mind as ever. Jonah Poplove your memories will always remain. I will miss you.

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From Benjamin Kronk:

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Thank you for being such a source of joy and optimism during Caroga. I was blown away by your musicianship, your kindness and your willingness to create something beautiful. Working with you was such an honor. You are loved by so many, and we will all miss you deeply.

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From Joan Harrison:

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Jonah, we chatted only three weeks ago - your enthusiasm for music education and our plans to get together to discuss new paradigms in string education still linger...I hope you are at peace now - you will be missed but not forgotten....

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From Tina Fedeski:

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So incredibly sad. Jonah was one of the most beautiful and generous-spirited people I have ever met. He mentored in OrKidstra since his early days at high school and made a huge difference. He was an inspiring role model both as a young man and as a musician. We were proud that he also became part of our Leading Note family. You will be so missed --- this news is truly unbelievable. Please let us know if there is anything we can do - Ezra Poplove call anytime. With love, Tina and Gary

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From Erika Wood:

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Da kommt er eben her mit sanfter Miene,
Und senkt den Kopf und spielt die Viola.

Here he comes, with gentle mien,
And lowers his head, and plays the viola.

May you rest in peace. Your song lives on, in all of us and around us, forever. Thank you for having me over for Shabbat.

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From David Chapman-Orr:

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Missing your kind words and thoughtful conversations.

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From Jeanie Marie:

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I only knew you for a week or so at Orford Festival when you were only 17. I'm shocked and saddened to hear you are no longer with us. I remember your generosity, love for music, and big heart. I'm going to miss you. Condolences, love, and prayers to your family and friends during this time.

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From Emily Denison:

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I'm absolutely shocked and saddened to hear of Jonah's passing. After many Saturdays in spent in orchestra rehearsals growing up, Jonah and I reconnected by chance this past spring playing a special 3-day long video shoot/performance in Algonquin Park. I had no idea that he was in such pain. My heart goes out to his family and close friends at this time.

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From Victoria Frank:

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Jonah,

I hope that you found your peace. I'm glad I got to see you one last time and scream like a crazy lady for you at graduation this summer. Thank you for being a kind and fun friend and helpful classmate throughout university. We had some really great times together. You'll always be so missed and so loved.

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From Graham Rosen:

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So shocked and saddened to hear of your passing, Jonah... your smile, and sincerity of thoughts and approach was something I always admired. Rest In Peace. You will be missed deeply. See you on the other side, let's get coffee.

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From Meshell Mi Belle:

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I am beyond grateful to have been able to share not only a stage but a love of music and passion with Jonah. My family and I are deeply saddened by the news of his passing. Mom and I were just talking about memories we have of him... his kindness and smiles were contagious. My mom spoke to him a lot... he would talk about his family often. He loves you guys. He was an amazing musician and friend. I'm going to contact this photographer this week and get more photos of us performing together in 2014. I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm sending all my love and strength to Jonah's family and friends.

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From Lucas Haneman:

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I had the pleasure of working with Jonah back in 2014 on my first gig with Michelle Treacy. There was him and a few other guys and I remember him standing out because he was kind. He had this calming nature about him and his love for music was infectious. I enjoyed our talks at rehearsals and sharing the stage with him. My condolences to his family and friends. I know he's up there sharing his incredible musicality!

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From Alana Mistry:

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Jonah, your smile and musical abilities will always be etched into my memory. I have so many fond memories of us working late on projects , having drinks after your busking sessions with your brother, graduating together at convocation in June. Words can't describe how deeply saddened I am to know you are gone. I am so grateful to have crossed paths with you and I hope you are at peace right now. See you on the other side, my friend.

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From Rachael Jo Cardiello:

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Jonah reached out to me after I posted a little video of music I'd been messing around with - a very homemade piece of art just for the sake of exploring. It was lovely to get such a lovely, enthusiastic response from a stranger. He struck me as so genuine and openly inspired by a wide range of creative influences. We met briefly at an Ottawa show I played and I felt lucky to have crossed paths with such a unique, deep-hearted soul. My heart is going out to his family and community.

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From Svea-Malina Landschoof:

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Dear Jonah, I remember the day I took this photo of you so vividly. You were one of my best friends during the year I spent in Canada. So warmhearted and talented. Thank you for making me feel welcome. I hope you are happy wherever you are now.

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From Grace Allison Rorschach Shaw:

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Jonah. I just saw you only a month ago, and in that afternoon you seemed so joyful. I couldn't get over how sweet it was the way you and Katie would twirl around poles and trees in your way so you could keep holding hands while walking down the sidewalk. It was an act that was so genuine and pure. I remember how later that day, I was driving us to James's, and you were sitting in the passenger seat. I kept glancing over at your smiling face and couldn't stop myself from seeing a future together, built with everyone in that car, all of us growing old together. It hurts my heart to realize that that future is no longer a possibility.
Thank you for sharing your light, if even for a short time. 

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