Jonathan Morales

So many times there is no explanation for the way in which the tide can turn. Jonathan Morales was a young man willing to sacrifice his own life for the preservation of the life we as Americans can take so for granted, his bright light snuffed out before it ever really got a chance to shine. He leaves behind lessons in strength, integrity, and courage that will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

During a year in which Bill Gates became a household name, Cheers was viewed on televisions across America, and George Bush was completing his term in office, Marisol Desarden and Sebastian Morales, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, were blessed with the birth of their son, Jonathan, on March 29, 1991. As one of four children in his family, Jonathan was lovingly referred to as “Mi Gordo” by his mother. Even though he was born in Milwaukee, Jonathan was extremely proud of his Puerto Rican heritage.

Jonathan attended local schools and was active in sports at Pius XI High School. He began wrestling on the varsity team when he was just a sophomore and continued throughout his high school career. Jonathan even took first place in a 2009 WIAA regional wrestling tournament, and took third place at the 2009 WIAA Sectionals. According to his wrestling coach, William Phillipson, he was a genuine sportsman, and he had this to say about Jonathan, “He was always smiling – he was probably the most positive, upbeat kid I ever met. This kid had no bad qualities.” While in high school, Jonathan also played football and was an assistant basketball coach at Kosciuszko Middle School.

Upon graduating from high school, Jonathan joined the United States Army, and was fulfilling his basic training requirement at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina. Sadly it was after participating in an exercise during the latter part of his basic training that Jonathan tragically died.

With a smile that brightened the lives of so many, Jonathan Morales was a gifted athlete, a fierce competitor, and a valiant soldier willing to serve his country in whatever way he was needed. He was positive, generous, and kind. Jonathan was a beloved son, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, and friend who will be so dearly missed by people too numerous to count.

Jonathan Morales died on August 20, 2009. Jonathan’s family includes his parents, Marisol Desarden and Sebastian Morales; sister, Odalysse A. Morales; brothers, Sebastian Morales, Jr. and Jayson Morales; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, many dear friends, and his beloved dog, Shaggy. Visit with Jonathan’s family and friends at the Funeral Home on Wed. Aug 26, 2009, from 2:00 p.m. until the time of Funeral Services at 7:00 p.m. Burial Services 12:00 Noon Thurs. Aug. 27, 2009, at Wisconsin Memorial Park, 13235 W. Capitol Dr. Brookfield, WI. PLEASE MEET IN THE MAIN BUILDING FOYER. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com, where you can leave a favorite memory or photo, sign the online guestbook, or make a memorial contribution to the family. Arrangements provided by Suminski Family Funeral Homes, Suminski / Weiss, 1901 N. Farwell Ave. (414) 276-5122.