Jonathan Byers

Jul 29, 1948 -

Jul 8, 2024

The family of Jonathan Byers regrets to announce his passing on July 8, 2024, at his home in Bartlesville, Okla., at the age of 75. A minimalist at heart, Jon maintained a lifelong appreciation for simplicity, and his loved ones remember the care and consideration with which he chose his words and actions, mindful of their impact on others.

The second of three sons, Jon was born in Bartlesville on July 29, 1948, to Nancy Jean Hardy and Cecil Eugene Byers. After graduating from Kansas University with a bachelor's degree in economics, Jon began a 32-year career in the engineering department at ConocoPhillips, first in Bartlesville and later in Anchorage, Alaska. It was in Bartlesville that he met and married Charlotte Anne Carroll; their union produced two children, Robert and Brady, who inherited their father's playfulness, concern for others and deep appreciation for bad movies.

Jon was an explorer. As a child, he loved spending time in the great outdoors, particularly while camping and canoeing; in adulthood, this interest culminated in his participation in an Outward Bound expedition. But Jon also explored with his mind, reading tirelessly on all manner of topics, from engineering and design to astronomy, philosophy, film and social histories. Much like one of his favorite characters, Mr. Spock, Jon was a walking encyclopedia, always ready to contribute relevant knowledge to the issue at hand - often combined with his characteristically wry sense of humor.

Jon was preceded in death by his parents, Nancy and Cecil. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte; sons, Robert and Brady; and two brothers, William and Timothy, and their families. In accordance with Jon's wishes, his ashes were dispersed at Camp McClintock Boy Scout Camp outside of Bartlesville. Donations to honor his memory may be made to The Nature Conservancy, preserve.nature.org.