Jonathan Robert Gonzalez

Jonathan Robert Gonzalez passed away suddenly on Tuesday, September 24, at the age of 44. Born on April 21, 1979, at Goleta Valley Hospital in Santa Barbara, Calif., Jon was known for his big heart, dedication to his faith, and relentless passion for advocating for what’s right.

Jon is survived by his beloved wife, Bronte, and their one-year-old daughter, Beretta—the light of his life and his greatest joy as a first-time father. He is also remembered by his mother, Jackie; his sisters, Julie Martinez and Jennifer Loza; his brother, Joe Gonzalez; and a large extended family of six nieces and nephews, two great-nieces, and one great-nephew. Preceded in death by his father, Bob—whose Johnny Cash renditions Jon loved to hear—Jon was also a devoted pet parent to his two cherished chihuahuas, Taz and Buddy, who shared countless beach days and car rides with him before they crossed the rainbow bridge.

A talented artist, Jon loved reminiscing about his early days as a graphic designer at a skateboard company and remained an avid boarder throughout his life. Jon also loved snowboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, fishing, hiking. He was deeply committed to his community and his faith, volunteering regularly to build homes with the Corazon Project in Mexico and drawing strength from his favorite song, No Longer Slaves (I Am a Child of God) by Bethel Music.

Jon’s time volunteering at the Santa Barbara Marine Mammal Center, where he helped rehabilitate and release injured sea lions, sparked a lifelong passion for the ocean–particularly U.S. fisheries and the commercial fishermen who depend on them. He began attending Regional Fishery Management Council meetings on his own time, volunteering to speak up for the hardworking individuals who made their livelihoods on the water. He also promoted U.S.-sourced seafood through his website, EatUSSeafood.com, where he shared recipes alongside his advocacy.

Jon’s passion ultimately led him to his “dream job” as Government Affairs Manager at Pacific Seafood. Engaged in efforts across the West Coast, Gulf of Mexico, and in Washington, D.C., Jon became one of the most well-known fisheries advocates in the United States. He was a driving force behind the USDA’s historic decision to purchase West Coast seafood, which provided new markets to local fishermen and delivered U.S. seafood items to schools and food programs throughout America. Jon was instrumental in saving thousands of seafood-industry jobs by helping secure federal relief funding during the pandemic. In times of crisis, he fought tirelessly to protect commercial fishermen and promote sustainable fisheries.

Jon’s unwavering dedication, genuine kindness, and quiet humility left an indelible mark on his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His fierce conviction, coupled with warmth and loyalty, made him not only a respected advocate in the seafood industry but also a true friend to all he met. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity and compassion that inspires those who continue his work and miss his presence dearly.

A GoFundMe page (https://gofund.me/aa9ff856) has been established to support Jon’s wife, Bronte, and daughter, Beretta, during this difficult time.