For the "Angels"

Thanks and Appreciation from Jonathon's family to Jonathon's "Angels"

Jonathon was a handicapped person who often needed many kinds of help in order to maintain himself and continue the production of his artistry. In the community of Pacific Grove, where he lived in his last years, as well as in Carmel and Monterey, he was well known to the public at large. He travelled all around the Peninsula (and beyond) on his well-known electric "scooter" that gave him mobility and the independence that he so highly valued. As a double amputee with two artificial legs who was legally blind, it was somewhat of a "miracle" that Jonathon was able to be so independent up to the very last weeks of his life. It came as a surprise to many people when he died, because he was often perceived to be much healthier than he was. Jonathon lost his ability to perform when diabetic nephritis robbed him of the sense of feeling in his hands. But he continued to promote his music with much enthusiasm and encouraged other artists as well. He took great pride and satisfaction in helping to launch the career of Michæl Martinez. Jonathon wanted to be an inspiration to other handicapped people, too, and he produced a DVD on that subject.

As his family, we would have preferred for Jonathon to be in a more sheltered setting during his last years. But he would not even consider that option. Jonathon wanted to "die in the saddle". And he did just that. In retrospect, we think he made the right choice and we respect him for making it. His life was richer and probably longer for it. The pain of watching Jonathon struggle with his life was at times almost unbearable. We tried to stand back and give him the space he needed to lead the life he wanted. You can't imagine what a relief it was to know that other people also cared and were there to make a difference.

The only reason that Jonathon's life realized such success up to the end was because willing people stepped forth and provided him with different types of help at critical points in the declining process of his life. You provided tangible assistance of varied sorts. More than that, you sustained him with your hope, appreciation and caring. Jonathan struggled against the immense pain of his existence. He was able to win that battle for so long because of the interest and involvement of his angels. You put meaning in his life. You gave him a reason to live, and it was a priceless gift. Please feel proud and know you made a difference. You are deeply appreciated in the hearts of all who knew Jonathon.

The intent here is to acknowledge and thank people who helped Jonathan along the way. We know who some of you are and you will be listed here. There are undoubtedly many other people that we do not know of. Only Jonathon would know that - although even he did not know the identity of some of you who sent him loving gifts anonymously. We regret that he is no longer with us to tell the full story. We apologize to any kind person who assisted Jonathon but who is not known to us and therefore cannot yet be acknowledged here. If you are - or know of - such a person, please inform us because we want to acknowledge all the angels. And if you have a story to tell about Jonathon, please include it. You can reach us via email, phone or postal mail.

With deep respect and gratitude,

Jonathon Lee's family

Partial List of Known Angels:

Ben Bentsen
Ben Goldman
Big Sur International Marathon
Haruki Kamiyama
Linda Gauthier
Lynda and Archie Martinez
Pacific Grove Rotary Club
Pam and Phil Finnerman
Tyson Rininger

MACNICA, Inc. founded by Haruki Kamiyama , Jonathon Lee promotion in Japan http://www.macnica.co.jp/jl/