Jonathan Tkach died July 10, 2019, in San Diego, following a long fight with leukemia.

Jonathan Bryon Gaillard Tkach was born October 17th, 1980, in San Diego, to Walter and Cheryle Gaillard Tkach. Jonathan grew up in Scripps Ranch, San Diego, and had a childhood full of playing in canyons, chasing his dogs, and beating his brother at video games.  Jonathan attained Eagle Scout, served as class president in school, wrestled at the State Championship Varsity level, and graduated from Scripps Ranch High School. Jonathan’s father, Dr. Walter Tkach, was an Air Force Major General who served as Presidential Physician to several presidents, including Eisenhower and Nixon. Jonathan became interested in a military career from an early age. Shortly after graduating from the University of Arizona with dual degrees in Political Science and Economics, he was accepted into the Navy SEAL candidate program,  a fit he considered perfect for his love of both service and action. Nearing the end of the SEAL training program, he experienced a disabling knee injury. As a result, Jonathan was honorably discharged and began his second career in health care.

While attending school in Prague he met the love of his life, Emmily Poole.  They were married in San Diego on September 12th, 2012, following her graduation from medical school.  They had been living in Long Beach while Emmily completed her residency at Saint Mary’s Hospital.

Jonathan was a highly decorated Brazilian Ju-jitsu Wrestler. He won many championship medals in the US, Europe, and at the World level. 

Jonathan was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in April, 2017. Throughout the months of treatments, Jonathan maintained a sense of focus and purpose. When his blue eyes regained their sparkle and his sense of humor resurfaced, his family and friends rejoiced. While his health remained frail to the end of his life, Jonathan’s good spirits and keen interest in others made him an inspiration to all.  Jonathan’s joy in life, right up to the day he died, will always be remembered.

Jonathan was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Walter Tkach. Jonathan is survived by his wife, Dr. Emmily Poole; his mother, Cheryle Tkach; his brother, Marc Tkach; his half-brother, Jack Tkach; and his beloved nephews, Quinn and Nolan; his great-aunt, Ellen Holmes; and cherished cousins; in-laws Mel and Robert Poole; and friends too numerous to name who considered him a brother and a son. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 5th, 2019, at the Scripps Ranch Library Center at 3:40 pm. 

In lieu of flowers the family asked that memorials be made to Pets for Vets.