Jon Volkmer Obituary

John 11:21-26 

Then Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother wouldn’t have died. Yet even now I know that whatever You ask from God, God, will give You.” “Your brother will rise again,” Jesus told her. Martha said, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me, even if he died, will live. Everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die-ever. Do you believe this?”

Jon William Volkmer, born May 20, 1955, in Kansas City, Missouri, entered the arms of his Lord and Savior on September 12, 2025, at the age of 70. Known to many as “Jon with no H,” he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Larger than life, Jon will be dearly missed.

Jon dedicated his professional life to serving others as a loan officer in banking, where he was respected by colleagues and loved by his customers for his kindness, integrity, and genuine care.

During his time at Sam Houston State University, Jon met the love of his life, Roxey Ashcraft, a proud member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. Jon served as president of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, and their paths crossed in ways only God could have orchestrated. Over the course of more than fifty years together, they built a marriage grounded in love, faith, and service to others. Jon lived out SHSU’s motto, “The measure of a life is its service,” not only in his career but in every relationship he had.

Jon’s servant heart was evident through his lifelong commitment to his community. He was an active member of Rotary International, dedicating countless hours to philanthropic service, including the global effort to eradicate polio. He served on the boards of numerous Chambers of Commerce across Texas, guided young men as a Boy Scout leader, counseled youth in their faith, and coached numerous Little League teams—shaping lives with encouragement, integrity, and joy. In all these roles, Jon exemplified generosity, servant leadership, and selflessness.

He also delighted in life’s simple pleasures. Jon loved watching football—especially the SHSU Bearkats, Houston Oilers, and the Kansas City Chiefs—playing golf, listening to country music, and grilling barbecue. He rusted out more than a few barbecue pits over the years. Known for his playful spirit, Jon was famous for practical jokes that brought both laughter and mild trauma to those who loved him. In later years, he found joy in repurposing discarded furniture and other people’s “junk,” uncovering potential and beauty where others could not. He went through enough Gorilla Glue, Sharpie markers, and spray paint to stock a small craft store, a testament to his creativity—and persistence—in bringing new life to old things.

Above all, Jon was a man of faith who loved God and cherished the blessings of family. He is preceded in death by his parents, William “Bill” Francis and Artie Lucille Volkmer. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Roxey Ashcraft Volkmer; his sons, Ryan Volkmer and wife Stacy, and William “Kyle” Volkmer and wife Beth; his daughter, Ashley Volkmer Picket and husband Greg; his sister, Karla Oubre; his brothers, Kurt Volkmer and wife Tanya, and Erik Volkmer and wife Margo; and his beloved grandchildren, Clive Roan, Adelaide, Ravi Noelle, Liam, Jude, and Emily Phoebe Anne. He also leaves behind a host of extended family and dear friends, including Jim Harris, Gordon Massie, Jim McKendree, and Willard McAndews, who will carry his memory in their hearts. We take comfort in knowing Jon is reunited in Heaven with his dear friend Ed Maldonado, sharing laughter and fellowship, and playing the best golf courses heaven has to offer!

Jon will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his generous spirit, and the love he poured into his family and community. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a commemorative personalized brick with Jon’s name be commissioned and placed in the Alumni Garden at Sam Houston State University. Donations may be made via Venmo to Ryan Volkmer.