Jon Knox

In Loving Memory of Jon Allan Knox

October 2, 2026

Distinguished United States Air Force Chief Master Sergeant

Jon Allan Knox passed away on October 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. A distinguished veteran of the United States Air Force, Jon devoted thirty years of his life to serving his country. His remarkable military career, courageous service during three tours in Vietnam, continued dedication to fellow veterans, enduring faith, and lifelong love of family and animals leave a legacy of honor, perseverance, leadership, and selfless service.

Jon lived a life defined by duty and devotion. From his early days as a helicopter mechanic to his rise through the ranks to Chief Master Sergeant, he demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and leadership. Even after retiring from military service, he continued to give his time and energy to preserving military aviation history and supporting fellow veterans. His life was a testament to the belief that service is not simply a career, but a lifelong commitment to others.

Early Life and Family

Jon was born in Marfa, Texas, to Gerald Eugene Knox and Barbara Janice Collier. The oldest of four siblings, he grew up alongside his brother Charles (Ruth) Knox, his sister Barbara (John) Beair, and his brother Greg Knox.

He graduated from Bellevue High School in Bellevue, Nebraska, in 1961. The determination, discipline, and strong sense of purpose that characterized his later years began taking shape during his youth.

Jon was married three times. His first marriage was to Julie, and he is survived by a daughter, Jonny Jo Lee, as well as two grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His second wife was Lottie Ann. Later in life, he married Marlene S. Fowers of Ogden, Utah. In 1997, Jon moved to Utah to be with Marlene, beginning a new chapter filled with family, friendship, and continued service.

Through his marriage to Marlene, Jon became part of a larger family. He is survived by his stepdaughters, Lisa (Patrick) Butler and Alisa (Art Garro) Anderson. His stepson, David Fowers, preceded him in death.

His grandchildren from his third marriage include Brooke (Tyler) Renton, Natalie (Mohammad Taha) Butler, Alexandra Trevino, Samantha Trevino, Stephanie Trevino, and Simone Trevino, as well as three great-grandchildren. Jon is also remembered by his siblings and extended family, who will cherish the memories they shared and the lasting place he holds in their lives.

A Distinguished United States Air Force Career

On October 19, 1964, Jon began what would become a remarkable thirty-year career in the United States Air Force. Starting as a helicopter mechanic, he advanced through years of demanding work, technical achievement, and proven leadership to become an Operations Superintendent and ultimately attain the distinguished rank of Chief Master Sergeant, the highest enlisted rank in the Air Force.

Jon completed three tours of duty in Vietnam, accumulating more than 5,000 hours of helicopter flight time, including nearly 1,000 hours in combat. Serving in dangerous and demanding conditions, he demonstrated extraordinary courage, aviation expertise, and dedication to the airmen beside him and the country he had sworn to defend.

His exceptional service was recognized through numerous military decorations, including the Silver Star, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, and fourteen Air Medals, along with several Outstanding Unit Awards and presidential citations. These honors reflect not only his courage and professional accomplishments, but also his commitment to the mission and to the men and women with whom he served.

Throughout his career, Jon remained committed to education and professional development. He graduated as an honor graduate from both the Command Noncommissioned Officer Academy and the Air Force Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy. He also earned an associate degree in Aerospace Technology through the Community College of the Air Force.

Through perseverance, experience, and leadership, Jon earned the respect associated with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. On October 28, 1994, he retired from the United States Air Force after thirty years of honorable service to his country.

His military career was an extraordinary chapter in a life devoted to duty, courage, and the welfare of others. The legacy of his service lives on in the history he helped make and in the generations who continue to honor the sacrifices of America's veterans.

Faith and Spiritual Life

Faith became an important part of Jon's life and personal journey. In 1979, he was baptized and confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 1987, he was ordained a high priest, marking another significant milestone in his spiritual life.

His faith stood alongside his devotion to country, his love for family, and his commitment to serving others. It remained an important part of the story of his life and the values by which he sought to live.

A Lifetime of Continued Service

Retirement from the Air Force did not mark the end of Jon's working life or his willingness to serve. After leaving the military in 1994, he began a second career with Conoco gas stations. He started in Florida and later continued working in Utah, where he served as a store manager.

During his years with Conoco, Jon developed friendships and lasting relationships with coworkers and customers. His work reflected the same reliability, dedication, and commitment that had guided his military career. In 2013, he retired for a second time, closing another meaningful chapter in a life marked by hard work and connection with others.

Even then, Jon's desire to contribute continued. He volunteered more than 1,300 hours at Hill Aerospace Museum, helping preserve the history and heritage of military aviation. Through this service, he helped ensure that the stories, sacrifices, and achievements of those who served in the Air Force would continue to be remembered by future generations.

Approximately nine years before his passing, Jon suffered a stroke and became a resident of the George E. Wahlen Ogden Veterans Home. Although this brought significant challenges to his life, it did not diminish his commitment to others. He continued serving his fellow veterans as president of the Veterans Council at the home.

In this role, Jon remained a leader, advocate, and source of fellowship for those who shared his experiences and understood the meaning of military service. Even as he faced his own difficulties, he continued to give his time and support to others.

Jon's service extended far beyond the years he wore the Air Force uniform. It lived on in his volunteer work, his leadership among fellow veterans, and his dedication to preserving the history of military aviation. He understood that a life of service does not end with retirement; it continues through the lives we touch and the good we leave behind.

A Lifelong Love of Animals

Beyond his distinguished military career and commitment to service, Jon had a lifelong love of animals, especially dogs. Throughout his life, he shared his days with many beloved canine companions, each holding a special place in his heart. Those faithful friends brought him comfort, happiness, and companionship through life's many seasons.

His affection for animals revealed a tender side of a man whose military career had demanded discipline, courage, and strength. To Jon, his dogs were more than pets. They were cherished companions whose loyalty and unconditional affection became an enduring part of his life story.

Many of these beloved companions preceded him in death, but the joy they brought him remained part of the memories he carried. It is comforting to imagine Jon once again surrounded by the faithful dogs he loved so dearly.

A Lifelong Passion for Cars, Trucks, and Motorcycles

Jon had a lifelong love of working on cars and a genuine passion for all things automotive. He especially enjoyed muscle cars, trucks, motorcycles, and attending NASCAR races with his wife Marlene. Whether he was working under the hood, turning a wrench, or admiring the power and craftsmanship of a favorite vehicle, working with machines was a source of pride and enjoyment throughout his life.

Among his most treasured possessions were his 25th Anniversary Pontiac Trans Am and his purple 2002 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail. He was especially proud of both vehicles, which reflected his appreciation for distinctive styling, performance, and the freedom of the open road.

These passions were an important part of who Jon was beyond his distinguished military career. He enjoyed working with his hands, taking pride in his vehicles, and spending time with the things he loved. His enthusiasm for cars, trucks, and motorcycles created memories that his family and friends will continue to cherish.

Jon's love of automobiles and motorcycles remains a special part of his story—a reminder that behind the decorated Chief Master Sergeant was a man with personal passions, treasured possessions, and simple pleasures that brought him genuine happiness.

A Lasting Legacy

Jon Allan Knox lived a life of extraordinary service, perseverance, and devotion. From his beginnings as a helicopter mechanic to his leadership as an Operations Superintendent and Chief Master Sergeant, he built a military career distinguished by courage, professional excellence, and an unwavering commitment to his fellow airmen.

Three tours in Vietnam, thousands of hours in military aviation, numerous decorations for meritorious and courageous service, and thirty years in the United States Air Force stand as enduring measures of his accomplishments. Yet the true measure of Jon's life reaches far beyond his rank, flight hours, and military honors.

His legacy is also found in the veterans he continued to serve, the history he helped preserve, the faith he embraced, the family he loved, the friendships he formed, and the many dogs that brought companionship and joy to his life. It is also found in the cars, trucks, and motorcycles he treasured and the memories associated with the passions that made him who he was.

Jon's story is one of a man who answered his country's call and continued to serve long after his military retirement. He gave generously of his time, remained committed to his fellow veterans, and demonstrated through his actions that duty, compassion, and leadership can endure through every stage of life.

He leaves behind a legacy of honor, courage, faith, and service that will not be forgotten. His country was strengthened by his dedication, his fellow veterans benefited from his leadership, and his family will carry his memory forward with love and pride.

Rest in peace, Chief Knox.

You answered your country's call, served with distinction through three tours in Vietnam, and devoted thirty years to the United States Air Force. Even after retirement, you continued to serve your fellow veterans and preserve the history of military aviation.

Your final watch is complete, and you are relieved of duty. You served your country well.

May you rest peacefully, reunited with the many beloved dogs who brought you joy throughout your life. May Marlene and all your family find comfort in the memories you leave behind and take pride in the extraordinary life you lived.

Your service, sacrifice, faith, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all those who knew and loved you.

In Lieu of Flowers

In recognition of Jon's lifelong dedication to military aviation and his more than 1,300 hours of volunteer service, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Hill Aerospace Museum in lieu of flowers.

These gifts would honor Jon's commitment to preserving the history and heritage of the United States Air Force and help ensure that the stories of those who served will continue to inspire future generations.

Celebration of Life and Veterans Honors

Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and celebrate the life of Jon Allan Knox.

Veteran Honor Walk

Friday, October 23, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

A 10-minute Veteran Honor Walk will be held in recognition of Jon's honorable military service and lifelong dedication to his country.

Open House Celebration of Life

Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Family and friends are welcome to attend an open house celebration of Jon's life in the Activity Room.

Location for Both Gatherings

George E. Wahlen Ogden Veterans Home
1102 N. 1200 W.
Ogden, Utah

Interment

Jon Allan Knox will be interred at the Utah Veterans Cemetery and Memorial Park in Bluffdale, Utah, at a later date.

A Special Thank You

Jon's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff at the George E. Wahlen Ogden Veterans Home for the wonderful care, kindness, and compassion they provided to Jon throughout his nine years there.

The family is deeply thankful for the dedication, patience, and support shown to Jon over the years. Your care helped make the veterans home a place of comfort and companionship, and your kindness will always be remembered and appreciated.

Thank you for caring for Jon and for the difference you made in his life and in the lives of those who loved him.

With gratitude for his service, admiration for his courage, and love for the life he lived, we honor the memory of Chief Master Sergeant Jon Allan Knox. May his example of duty, faith, perseverance, and devotion continue to inspire all who follow in his footsteps.

Friends and family are invited to share photos and memories of Jon at his memorial page at https://myers-mortuary.com/obituaries/jon-knox-oct-2026. Services entrusted to Myers Mortuary in Ogden, Utah.