March 1, 2023

Johnathan David Bennett
​ May 8, 1988 - January 31, 2023

​Johnathan David Bennett died on Jan. 31, 2023, as a result of violent crime in Portland, Ore.
He is survived by his parents Dawn (Tim) Heiydt, Steve Morton and David (Conie) Bennett; his loving brother Jared (Bennett) Morton; and step siblings, TJ Heiydt, Alexa Heiydt and Angelica Bennett.
Jon was laid to rest in his hometown of Colfax, Wash., next to his sisters, Margaret Ann (Megann) Bennett and Michaela Dawn Bennett.
Jon was born on Mother’s Day, May 8, 1988. He is my favorite Mother’s Day Present! He was a huge baby – needy and loud from birth. He always gave me the biggest and best hugs.
Even at a young age, Jon had a tender and compassionate heart. He had a special bond with his sister, Megann, born with special needs. He played with her and comforted her always. He would pick her up by her chest, arms in the air, dragging her to me, saying, “Her crying.” I would tell him often, “Jon-Jon, don’t pick up the baby….” He was the Best Big Brother.
His sister, Michaela, and brother, Jared, were within four years of one another. Like all siblings, they loved each other and fought with each other. Jon and Jared, being only 12 months apart, were often mistaken as twins. They were known in Colfax as “The Bennett Boys.”
Between them, they had eight paper routes for several years. They were known to be good, hard workers, helping people with odd jobs. They were also naughty! Riding their bikes down the middle of Main Street; climbing onto the neighbors’ rooftops, trying to cut the power lines; taking turns burying each other in the garden and riding their motorcycles dangerously down the hill into the pea field! Many others, too many to list… and many more I’m sure I don’t know about.
Jon started wrestling at the age of 5 and wrestled Little Guys through grade school, then junior high and high school wrestling. Going to State three times but never placing was a disappointment to him, but he later realized that being on the mat at the Tacoma Dome was amazing. Wrestling was our family for many years. Our coaches and wrestling family were a significant part of Jon’s life and our family’s story. Thank you, Steve. The kid could bridge!
Jon struggled in school with a learning disability. Many nights, he and I sat at the kitchen table doing homework to keep him eligible for sports. Jon worked twice as hard and got half as far. But he never gave up. To quote him regarding his senior project, “I will exceed their expectations.” And he did!
Jon wanted to join the Army after graduation but struggled to pass the ASVAB test. He joined Job Corps instead and learned different trades. He did finally pass the ASVAB and chose to go to college. Jon is the first of our children to graduate from college. A huge victory to Jon’s credit and one I am so proud of.
Known as Bennett at this time, he met Lora. Together they moved to Portland. Bennett and Lora shared many beautiful adventures together and loved each other very much.
Jon was the BEST uncle to his nieces and nephews. Because he was fun and larger than life. Uncle Jon – above and beyond.
Jon loved Portland, the city of “Keep It Weird.” When we would visit, he enjoyed taking us around to his favorite breweries, pubs and clubs, antique stores and beautiful places that he loved. The stories we have are priceless.
About seven years ago, Jon was diagnosed with mental illness: Bipolar II with Schizophrenia and Psychosis. He was open about his diagnosis and therapy. He was able to manage it through ups and downs for a few years. He wanted to be a counselor and help others.
However, during COVID, mental health services shut down, causing a lack of support for Jon. He quit taking his meds and began a spiral of mental health crisis. As a family, we tried to help Jon with what we thought was best. We spent three years, thousands of dollars and lots of heartache trying to get our Jon back, losing him bit by bit.
The reality of this is that even though we felt we were losing Jon, he was happy living his life the way he wanted. To quote Jared, “Mom, Jon is fine. He is doing and being exactly what he wants. It’s us that are devastated and lost without him.”
I’m grateful that Jon has a supportive and loving community in Portland who will miss him as much as his family and friends.
Mental illness took the life of Jon in the streets of Portland.
This is the awareness. This is the compassion I think Jon would want… to help those who cannot help themselves. To be kind and to be loving.
I love you always, Jon.
xoMOMxo

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Death Notice

David Martin, 90, of Helena, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023.
Simple Cremation Montana has assisted the family.
To view the obituary and share remembrances, visit www.SimpleCremationMT.com.