Jon “Jack” Oberholtzer
Jon “Jack” Oberholtzer, 60, clocked out for the last time on May 13, 2025—though he’d probably say he was just finally taking the day off. His passing was sudden and unexpected, but it happened exactly where he wanted to be: at home.
Born on April 6, 1965, to Jon and Cindy Oberholtzer (both of whom he now joins in Heaven), he was soon followed by his brothers Gary (Alice), Craig (Susan), and David (Marsha), leaving Cindy lovingly outnumbered in a house full of boys. Jon grew up in Ohio (Go Browns!), spent some time in Florida, and eventually made Texas his home. He graduated from La Marque High School, class of 1983.
Jon was the proud husband of Tamara Oberholtzer, who somehow managed to put up with him—and love him—for 38 years. They fell in love in March 1987 and were married by September that same year. When marrying Tammy, he was blessed with another set of loving parents, Ronald and Brenda Bodine. Together, Jack and Tammy welcomed their one and only daughter, Maegan Koster, in October 1990. He was proud to be a father not just to Maegan, but also to his son-in-law, Kevin Koster, who he considered his own. If there was any greater joy than being a husband and father, it was being “Pap Pap” to Kaelyn and Jon Koster. He loved spoiling his grandkids with affection (and plenty of trips to the dollar store).
Jon worked nearly 35 years at the Texas City refineries as an operator. He built lifelong friendships—many of whom became like family—during his 18 years at Union Carbide/DOW and 16 years at Marathon. Whether running equipment or running his mouth, “Jon-O” made his mark with his hard work, sharp wit, and an infectious smile that always gave him away.
In life, Jon appreciated the simple joys: weekend dinners out, “not-so-quiet” evenings with family, and watching Ohio State football or the Astros baseball games.
Jon didn’t want a fuss, so in his honor, crack open a cold beer, say something sarcastic, and hug your family a little tighter.
Per his wishes, there will be no formal funeral service at this time. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date, and the family will share those details as soon as they are available.
This is SO sad! I graduated from high school with Jon. He was always such a nice person. I’m so sorry for his family and friends.
Jon-O, I will forever remember our times at the plant, so many times we laughed so hard that we were crying!! Your love and devotion to Tammy, Meagan and your family was shown by your stories and your actions!! As a process operator, you were as sharp as a tack, both outside on the unit and working the board. You definitely showed me a few things. I will surely miss our casual banter! Rest in Peace
Tommy Nalley (T-ROOT)
Tammy, I’m very sorry. You and Jack were one of the few lucky couples to have enjoyed so many wonderful years together. I hope the memories will help you through this time.
Rest easy Brother !!! You will definitely be missed but never forget !!!
Job well done thy faithful servant !!!
Fly high my friend! God put you in so many life’s! You always helped when Clyde and I couldn’t figure something out! We had some good times as neighbors, friends and family! When you see us coming please don’t tell God heck don’t let those two crazies in! 😂🤣
I hate hearing the news of his passing but me and Jack played a lot of baseball together .He was the best catcher I ever played with and both of us got thrown of a couple of games together .RIP my brother.
May the family find comfort in knowing that he is in the memory of our Heavenly Father who can remove our enemy, death. It will be exciting to see how that is fulfilled “For since death came through a man, resurrection of the dead also comes through a man. For just as in Adam all are dying, so also in the Christ all will be made alive.” -1 Corinthians 15:21, 22
Rest well Jon O’. You’ll surely be missed, Thanks for everything.
I am very saddened by this news. It’s hard to imagine that I have had my last neighbourly chat with Jack. Such a nice gentleman…
May your soul rest in peace Jack. We miss you already.
So sorry for your loss. Jon was a Great Guy! Love going to the ULC and taking to him. Jon will be missed by so many. Prayers for his Family. 🙏🙏🙏
I’m so sad ..we played baseball together in our teens..such a great guy and always smiling no matter what..
Jon and I were hired at the same time. And both went to the ULC. Jon was a great guy and friend. I will surely miss him. I spent many hours playing Call of Duty with Jon. The only thing Jon and I could argue about was football. He cheered for Ohio State and I was from Michigan, but it was always in good fun.
RIP Lepooner you will be missed. Thanks for the memories
Jim “Mugwump” Magyar
Deepest condolences to the Oberholtzer family 💔❤️🩹❤️
Rest easy Jon and know you are loved by many ❤️
Jon,
We have worked together since our Union Carbide / Dow days and even ended up at BP/Marathon. You were an exceptional talent whom will be greatly missed. May God watch over your family during this time.
Like Mary always says, it’s never good news when you’re awakened by the phone late night or early morning. This morning in particular was no different. Mary took the call and in a cracking voice said she was on her way. When she broke the news to me, I was dumbfounded. Not Jack! Unfortunately, I quickly realized this was not a bad dream and it was evident that my Buddy was gone. The comments made in this post confirm that Jacks loss will be deeply felt by us all. As for Mary and I, our Friday nights will have a void because we had become accustomed to spending them with Jack and Tammy anytime he was off. When we visited, they always treated us like their house was our home. I looked forward to hearing about his latest projects and the hobbies he was passionate about. Regardless of what he had going on, he was always quick to offer help when you needed it. He was not only generous with his time, but also with his resources. One Friday evening Mary and I were inspired by his generosity to 2 young men that were dining across the restaurant from us. He told our waitress that he wanted to pay their tab, but wanted to keep it anonymous. We couldn’t help but smile when they scanned the restaurant looking for a clue as to who might have paid the bill. This was Jack, he was a giver and took joy in doing so. We’re going to miss you Jack, love you man and we’ll see you again when it’s our time. In the meantime, we’ll continue enjoying time and those special Lemon Drops with your sweet wife!
My deepest condolences to the family. Working with Jonny-O was always fun. I’ll miss his Jonny-isms and jokes. This one hurt. RIP Jonny.
We sure will miss you Jon O! It was always a good time working with you! You have taught me allot of things at work. I will be praying for your wife, daughter and family. RIP!
Thoughts and Prayers to Jon’s family and may God’s perpetual light always shine upon Jon !!!
We shared quite a few classed back in the day at LMHS !! We always got along and I am sad to hear of his passing!!!