The very first time I did worship team at a new church, I was nervous and antsy. I remember being asked to do something and utterly freezing. Jonathan was doing sound (as usual) and it was as if something clicked. He turned off sound guy mode and turned on intuitive guy mode. He had me come over to the sound booth. He asked me questions and got me to talk about something else entirely. Then he asked the question he needed me to answer once I was “unstuck”. It was so refreshing to have a sound guy treat me like a person and not just get annoyed. After that I was so much more comfortable on stage, especially knowing Jonathan was on sound. After leaving that church, I kept track of his family via Facebook. But one day, at a different church, there he was again! Running sound! It was so wonderful to get the chance to catch up with him and hear the stories about his family. I genuinely loved hearing the pride and love in his voice as he shared each of their current places in life. It never failed to make me smile when I would walk into church and see him there. I loved teasing him about forgetting his wife at home.
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Thinking and praying for you all. Wish we could be there in person, but know we love you all!! Love - The Thillmann's
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I've told people I want to be Jonathan when I grow up. It confused some people, but made total sense to me. I loved his honesty and integrity. When I asked how he was doing, he told me. He was authentic, real. I loved that he had so many facets of his life that seemed incongruous, yet made Jonathan uniquely him. In my early years of knowing Jonathan, each knew facet would surprise me. Eventually, nothing did. Because I learned Jonathan embraced the joy from everything he could. And I loved that. His love for Jesus, creating music, loving people, laughter, riding bikes, shooting, participating in no-talent shows, his generosity, commitment to family, dedication to friends....I admire how he lived his life, and hurt for your family who now has to learn how to live without this amazing man. Your family has always shown us love. Know our family loves you and prays for your hearts to heal as you grieve. - Cindy
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Jonathan was a unique man in so many ways. Guns on the one hand, violins on the other, and most importantly, a vibrant love for life and people. He had infectious enthusiasm that I know came from his deep love for Jesus. I've often thought that "Christians should have the most fun." I think Jonathan did. Cindy and I love you all, and are praying for your family.
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