Jonah Maxwell Hart
September 4, 2006 - October 2, 2023
Memorial Information
October 5 2023 - 5:00 pm
Temple Sinai, 5505 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh (Squirrel Hill) 15217
Jonah Maxwell Hart, beloved by so many, passed peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Monday, October 2. Jonah valiantly fought glioblastoma for the last 13 months. Despite the impact of cancer on his physical body, Jonah continued to embrace all that life can offer until the very end. Jonah was a source of light, humor, and strength to all who knew him.
Jonah was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on September 4, 2006. He joined his parents, Chris & Lorien Hart, and big sister Abigail, in their Highland Park home. His childhood was full of gathering with other kids on the block. There were many moments that included ice cream cones, days splashing around, and lemonade stands. It was a wonderful place to grow up and Jonah was essential to its spark.
He began attending Montessori Centre Academy (MCA) when he was 3 and quickly grew, not only his intellectual knowledge, but also in how to make friends, be a part of a larger community, and engage the natural world. Jonah continued at MCA until the 6th grade when he began at The Barack Obama Academy of International Studies.
A young man of many talents, Jonah was a rabid Michigan Wolverine fan, a beautiful artist, a competitive speed cuber, a crafty magician, a black belt in Taekwondo, a late night gamer, a fierce deck hockey player, a daredevil bmx bike rider, a double black diamond skier, but most importantly, a beloved friend, brother, and son.
While attending Obama Academy from 6th grade until his passing, Jonah was a straight-A student who fully participated in the school’s International Baccalaureate Program. He was on track to be a class valedictorian, maintaining his standing, even as he endured daily radiation. He was a proud member of the Obama Class of 2024.
Of all of the places in the world, Camp Harlam was his favorite. He began attending sleep-away camp as a 7 year old and made it his summer home every year since. He accompanied his fellow campers on a trip to Israel in 2022 and spent this past summer as a Counselor-in-Training. As you pull into the camp in Kunkletown, there are signs that say “Welcome Home” and this was true for Jonah. Jonah’s summer home filled him with joy and he filled it with his humor and wisdom.
As a 5th generation Wolverine, Jonah comes from a long line of Michigan scholars, including his sister, parents, grandparents, great grandfather, cousins, aunts, uncles, and family friends. He was cheering for his first Michigan football game when he was just days old and regularly went to “The Big House” for home games.
He is survived by his parents, Chris & Lorien Hart; sister, Abigail Hart; more best friends than he could count; as well as many grandparents, aunts & uncles, cousins, friends, teachers, extended family, neighbors, and fans of his hair.
A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, October 5, at 5 PM. The service will be held at Temple Sinai, 5505 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15217, everyone is welcome.
Shiva will be celebrated after the Memorial Service until 9 PM. Additionally, the family will host a Sukkot Celebration on Friday, October 6, from 6 PM - 9 PM and Saturday, October 7, from 10 AM - 2 PM. Please call Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. at 412.621.8282 for more information.
In lieu of flowers, the Harts ask that donations in Jonah’s memory be made to The Outlier Fund: https://www.theoutlierfund.org.
Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., family owned and operated. www.schugar.com
Condolences
Send Condolence
You do not know me, but a chance encounter with Jonah’s grandmother lead me here. Jonah sounded like an incredible human being who lived his life to the fullest. The life he lived was an inspiration to us all, and even this stranger is moved by his courage and kindness. My heart goes out to all of you, and I am praying that the dear memories of Jonah will comfort you during this difficult time.
By Stacie Price - October 06, 2023
We were so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved son, brother, & friend. May the coming days be kind to you as you grieve and remember. On the difficult days, I hope & pray that you will feel his warmth & love in your hearts.
By Holly & Bert Pasquale - October 06, 2023
My dear Hart family, sending you love, and vibes. May Jonah's memory be a blessing and bring as much laughter and joy as tears.
By Jennifer England - October 05, 2023
Dear Lorien and Chris,
We are so sad to hear this news about Jonah. We are thinking of your family.
By Jana and Jonathan Finder - October 05, 2023
Sending so much love and healing to each of you. May Jonah’s memory be a blessing and may you find comfort in his beautiful life and legacy.
By Becca Sufrin Rudel - October 05, 2023