Jonathan Alper

Jonathan Alper passed away peacefully at the Retreat at Buffalo Hill on the morning of July 24, 2021, after a courageous and lengthy battle with head and neck cancer and its complications.

Born in New York City, Jon moved at a young age to California. He attended Chadwick Academy in Palos Verdes Peninsula and Reed College in Portland, Oregon. After a stint in the Army, Jon and a partner established a company, Marine Salvage and Dive. He was also one of the original founders of the triathlon, “Escape from Alcatraz.” For about 17 years before retirement, Jon owned and managed a successful printing business in San Francisco. Then, retirement plans took him to Anacortes, Washington, where he met the love of his life, Susie.

Jon always had a dream to be a cowboy and he loved the water and boating. He owned a tugboat in Anacortes that he and Susie had enjoyed thoroughly. Susie was originally from Montana so they headed back to Montana to fulfill Jon’s dreams. There they started a popular bed ‘n’ breakfast and were married on Oct. 16, 1993.

To Jon, organization and planning were key ingredients to contentment. Spreadsheets, labeled light switches, alphabetized files and spice racks prevailed. His quick wit, great memory, and sarcastic jabs kept his loved ones and friends on their toes.

Jon was an avid online shopper. He was intrigued with every new gadget and device that was offered, much to Susie’s chagrin. He ordered every health periodical and magazine but rarely paid attention to their advice. He distributed this information to his peers hoping they would practice healthy habits. Jon loved lively conversation and had an open-door policy. He wanted his family and friends to visit often, which they did. It was like a continuation of their cherished hosting memories from their B&B days. Even family pets were welcome.

Jon is survived and will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Susie; his children, Jonathan Jr. (Liz), Lyn, Christopher, and Libby (Levi); his grandchildren, Jesse (Dylan), Lucas, Kara, Derek, Mabry and Addie; all of Susie’s siblings, nieces and nephews who referred to him as “Big Jon,” and Riley, his four-legged constant companion.

Susie will be hosting an open-house memorial, catered by Desoto Grill, at the family home for friends and family on Saturday, Aug. 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rather than flowers, please help continue Jon’s love of animals by making a donation to the Flathead County Animal Shelter.

Arrangements are being handled by Darlington Cremation and Burial Services.