Jon Michael Rivers

Jon Michael Rivers, 81, of Marion, IL, passed away on May 11, 2025. Born on August 24, 1943, in Marshall, Michigan, he was the son of Carl and Illa Rivers.

Jon’s life was one of devotion—to his family, his students and his ball players. A trailblazer in collegiate athletics, Jon became the first head baseball coach at John A. Logan College in 1969, where he built a respected and lasting program. In 2000, he retired as Chair of the Career and Technical Education Department after teaching drafting and Computer Aided Design for 32 years.

On June 11, 1966, Jon married Edythe Ann Merrill. Together, they shared nearly 59 years of marriage.

A true craftsman at heart, Jon enjoyed woodworking and restoring vintage cars. He earned his pilot's license and shared the skies—and a cherished airplane—with his dear friend Jerry Bechtel. He had a passion for music and dancing and remained a loyal fan of the Detroit Tigers and Chicago Cubs. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandchildren compete in the sports he loved so much.

Jon’s world revolved around his family. He was a proud and loving father to his three girls: Michelle (Quent) Hamilton, Dawn Marie Rivers, and Barbie (Tim) Barnett. He found immense joy in his grandchildren: Holden (Swaaty) Reel, Emily (Matt) McGee, Lexy Blevins, Brook Hamilton, Peyton Barnett, and Presley (Deven) Clark, as well as his great-granddaughter, Mya Marie McGee.

Jon was blessed with many dear and lifelong friendships from his hometown of Marshall and his John A. Logan College family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Gary (MaryEllen) Rivers, and his beloved daughter Dawn Marie Rivers.

Jon was always known for being the life of the party and planned many dances over the years for all to enjoy. He was always ready to try a new adventure, whether it was racing Odyssey’s, riding motorcycles, trail riding on dirt bikes, scuba diving, traveling in the RV or going with the Parrot Heads to Jimmy Buffet concerts. Whatever he did, he gave 100 percent and included his family.

Binkley-Ross Funeral Home has been entrusted to assist the family with arrangements. A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 2:30 P.M. at Rosehill Cemetery, with Kevin McNeely officiating. Those planning to attend should meet at the cemetery shortly before 2:30. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Jon's memory to the John A. Logan College Foundation/Baseball.