Jonathan "Jon" Knick Stockton, 78, of Sebring, passed away on July 24, 2025. Born on May 14, 1947 he
was the son of Jack Jenks Stockton and Naomi Louise Stockton.
A graduate of East Lansing High School where he was a star athlete on the baseball and football teams,
Jon went on to earn a degree in Physical Education from Western Michigan University. His passion for
team sports led him to spend over four decades shaping young lives at Palmetto Elementary School.
Known affectionately as "Coach" by generations of students, his dedication to education and his vibrant
spirit left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.
When not coaching students, Jon's love for sports led him to participate in competitive volleyball and
tennis leagues throughout Palmetto, Bradenton and Sarasota. He was also an avid jogger, and enjoyed
the peaceful solitude of a long run. These hobbies not only kept him physically fit but also brought him
immense pleasure.
Jon was a true muscle car enthusiast – whether behind the wheel of one of his beloved Corvettes,
attending a car show, or searching for the next Hot Wheel or Diecast car to add to his abundant
collection, he was known and admired by many for this hobby.
His love for adventure took Jon on numerous trips, but his favorite was always to the family's timeshare
in Lake Tahoe, where he enjoyed making memories with his loved ones. Having a quick wit and knack for
telling jokes, Jon was a constant source of joy to his family and friends.
He was a devoted grandfather who made it a priority to attend sporting events and celebrate
milestones, always taking great pride in his granddaughter's accomplishments. Jon was equally loyal as a
son, sibling, and friend. He demonstrated profound compassion, particularly during the most difficult of
times. Jon selflessly tended to loved ones in their final weeks, offering comfort, support and an
unwavering presence. His dedication to family and friends was the cornerstone of his character.
Jon is survived by his son Jason Stockton and wife Mindy; daughter Jennifer Wheatley and husband
Kelton; granddaughters Emma Stockton, Kendall Wheatley, Hannah Stockton and Brooke Wheatley. He
is also survived by his brother Michael Stockton and wife Denise, and sister Janet Hager, along with
many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father Jack, mother Naomi, sister Jackie, and brothers-in-law David
Hager and Willy Dentz.
Jon's family and friends will remember him not only for his kindness, generosity and humor, but for the
passion he brought to everything he did. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.