Jonathan Werner

Jonathan Wayne Werner, 75, of Mentor-on-the-Lake, Ohio, passed away on June 7th, 2025, at the David Simpson Hospice House, holding the hand of his loving wife Rebecca.

A lover of life’s simple joys, Jonathan found endless delight in strumming his guitar, getting lost in a good book, and filling the room with music — whether from the speakers or his own hands. His appreciation for storytelling was matched only by his talent for it; he could spin a tale that had everyone laughing, leaning in, and occasionally raising an eyebrow at a particularly colorful “exaggeration for conversational effect.”

Jonathan was born March 8th, 1950, in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of Garland Jackson Werner and Joyce Lucille Werner (Cowen).

Jonathan attended Wickliffe High School where he was an exemplary musician, playing first-chair trumpet in the band and marching band for several years.

Jonathan married Rebecca McFarland on May 24th, 1969, at Unionville United Church just outside Geneva, Ohio. Jonathan and Rebecca were together for 56 years and went on to have three children, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Jonathan retired in 2010 from Norfolk Southern Railroad after 40 years. He worked in various positions and throughout many states, including Ohio, New York, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Georgia.

Remaining to cherish Jonathan’s memory are his spouse, Rebecca (McFarland); his daughters April Werner, Hallie Green, and Devon Werner (Matt Bolles); his grandchildren Kirsten Yopp, Brendon Green, Rhiannon SImmans-Werner, and Patrick Green; his great-grandchild Bryce McLean; his sister Wendy (Mark) Rohm and sons Connor and Dillon; and his cousin Rachel (John) Walsh and daughters Erin and Megan. Preceding Jonathan in death were his father, mother, brother Timothy Werner, cousin Robert Cowen. Sr, Robert Cowen, Jr, and Jane Cowen. Memorial donations in Jonathan’s memory may be directed to Hospice of the Western Reserve, where he and Rebecca volunteered for many years, and where he was lovingly cared for in his final days. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jonathan Werner, please visit our floral store.