Jonathan Schell

Jonathan R. Schell, 47, of Gap, PA, passed away at his home on Sunday, March 16, 2025. He was the husband of Katherine "Katie" Schell (Verbeten). Born in Miami, FL, he was the son of Vaunne Schell of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and the late Ronald Schell.

Jon came from a large family, 8 aunts and uncles and many cousins. Jon was passionate about helping people and full of life. He didn't always know what that meant, but if he saw a helpless person or animal in need he would go to great lengths to help them. He loved animals of all kinds, but felt a strong connection with dogs specifically. If he were to go anywhere and there was a dog present, Jon would seek them out and make friends with them immediately. Jon and Katie rescued 5 dogs in their 18 years together. Jon lived by the saying "work hard, play hard", sharing in his abundance with his family and friends often. He became successful in his career in the electrical industry, which he turned into real estate investments. Eventually being able to go into business with his family. While Jon was an only child, his cousins were as close as siblings to him. His ultimate dream to buy a large piece of land to have animals and grow crops, was realized before his untimely death.

Jon was an avid fan of MMA, spending time learning BJJ and learning how to wrestle in the last year. If there was any MMA fight to watch, you can bet Jon was watching it. Jon spent some time as a healer later in his short life, helping people through traumas. Jon followed in the footsteps of many of his family members, his grandfather, father, two uncles, and a cousin serving in our armed forces in the Navy. Jon was a fierce patriot of the United States, and this patriotism was ingrained in his image. During his time in service, Jon's proudest time was spent defending our country during OEF and supporting the Navy Special Warfare Unit 4 in Puerto Rico.

Besides his wife and mother, Jon is survived by cousins, Jason Boyd, Eric (Belinda) Boyd, Trystan (Krystle) Boyd, Ashleay Boyd, Casey (Tanya) Boyd, Schelly (Daniel) Boyd, sister-in-law, Elisa Vandevander and her children, Natalie, Madelyn, and Dylan.

Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Heroic Hearts Project.