Jon Carlos Mangles

Jon Carlos Mangles, 63, of Akron, OH, passed away on December 19, 2023. Jon was born on January 31, 1960, in Barcelona, Venezuela. He was a dedicated environmental scientist, having worked for various companies throughout his career, including CH2M Hill, Eli Lilly, the States of North Carolina and Indiana, and Akron Children's Hospital, where he planned to retire in 2025.

Jon had a deep love for nature, which stemmed from his childhood in Venezuela. Whether hiking in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, sea-kayaking in Antarctica, or hiking or biking on trails, he cherished every opportunity to connect with the natural world. Jon's passion for nature extended to his love for animals, as he was a devoted pet owner and advocate for all creatures.

To know Jon was to understand his serious and loving nature. He was a dedicated family man, and his partner, Robert Andrew Ford, meant the world to him. Jon is also survived by his siblings, Hermagoras Rafael, Ramon Rafael, and Frank Ivan, Ana Mercedes, and Jose Julian, as well as nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rafael Mangles Borges and María Antonieta Amundaray de Mangles and his partner Eric James Friederich.

While not a regular attendee of weekly services, Jon held strong Catholic beliefs. His faith provided him with comfort and guidance throughout his life. He was devoted to the Virgin Mary and went to visit her sanctuaries in different parts of the world.

A Funeral Mass will be held in Jon's honor on Friday, December 29, at 11:00 AM at St. Sebastian Parish at 476 Mull Avenue, Akron, OH 44320. Following the Mass, a reception will be held at his home at 476 Roslyn Avenue, Akron, OH 44320.

Instead of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to the American Civil Liberties Union or the Summit County Humane Society. These organizations were close to Jon's heart, and donations made in his memory will help continue their important work.

Please join us in celebrating Jon's remarkable life and the impact he had on those around him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road, Akron, OH  44333.