Jon N. Widercrantz

Jon N. Widercrantz, 70, of Ithaca, NY, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of Sunday, July 5, 2026.

Jon’s early life was spent with a tight-knit extended family who raised him as a city boy with access to the natural world. He grew up in industrial Astoria, NY, playing street hockey and stick-ball every chance he got; summers were spent at the family “Bungalow” near the north shore of Long Island where he learned appreciation of nature and how a special place can draw family closer. In college (Suffolk County Community & Hunter Colleges) he made lasting friendships and discovered theater production. Jon tried many employment avenues but wasn’t a career guy and did what he needed to do to live life – using his production skills in many different ways throughout his life.

The production of a family was at the heart of Jon’s life motivations after he moved to Ithaca, NY, where he and Sarah married and raised their three children – Hannah, Grace, and Elijah. His concept of family was always stretching to include more people, beginning with generations from his family of origin (he is survived by many beloved nieces and nephews), and growing with many friends through the decades up to the present time. Many people who know Jon will remember him for his warm attention and thoughtful advice. He was a hard worker, loved too many people to name, took long bicycle rides, and considered his rescued dog, Honey, the focus of his retirement.

Jon’s life was shortened because careless men who knew the deadly effects of asbestos neglected to share what they knew with the men and women who worked with it, a choice that led to devastating effects on multiple members of Jon’s family of origin. Jon invited us all to think about our choices and how they might contribute to the harm or healing of life. His philosophy of life might be summarized as one of his favorite authors, Wendell Berry, suggests, “Slow down. Pay attention. Do good work. Love your neighbors. Love your place. Stay in your place. Settle for less, enjoy it more.”

Family and friends are invited to attend Jon's burial service on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Greensprings Natural Cemetery Preserve, 293 Irish Hill Road, Newfield, NY 14867. In keeping with Jon's wishes, he will be laid to rest in a linen shroud without a casket.

Guests are asked to arrive at 10:00 a.m., with the burial service beginning at 10:30 a.m. Because the cemetery is a natural meadow, attendees are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear and dress for the possibility of rain.

Following the burial, family and friends are invited to gather for a time of sharing, remembrance, and refreshments from 12:30 to 4:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post 221, 1231 Danby Road, Ithaca, NY 14850. Those attending may also wish to bring a change of clothing in the event of wet weather.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Jon's name to Village at Ithaca or Hospicare.