Jonathan Tracy Goetzel

Jonathan Tracy Goetzel, a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away suddenly in April 2026 at the age of 55. Though he had quietly faced the challenges of a long-term lung disease, his passing remains a profound shock to all who loved him. A man of brilliant intellect and even greater kindness, Jon left an indelible mark on everyone he met.

Born on January 10, 1971, in Denver, Colorado, Jon was raised with a deep appreciation for family and the arts. He was exceptionally close to his mother, Virginia Mae Goetzel, and fondly remembered accompanying her to her college theater classes as a young boy. As an only child, he was the center of his mother’s world, and she carefully nurtured his kind and curious nature.

Jon was raised with the help of his beloved grandparents, Lester and Corabelle Goetzel. He often spoke of the early mornings in their home, sharing one of Grandma Corabelle’s wonderful breakfasts before heading out to help Grandpa Lester on the farm, where he developed a fascination for the inner workings of things, a trait that stayed with him his entire life. As a child full of curiosity, he was recognized for his exceptional intellect in gifted programs. Jon grew up surrounded by a large extended family on his mother’s side; his aunts, uncles, and cousins remained a vital part of his world throughout his life.

As an adult, Jon connected with his father, James Renteria. James became an advisor and a trusted mentor and friend to Jon. During some of his most difficult times, Jon leaned on James’s wisdom and support. Their relationship was a source of great strength for Jon, and he cherished the wonderful bond they shared.

Jon served in the U.S. Navy during the Gulf War. He was stationed on the USS Arkansas as a nuclear Machinist’s Mate. His military travels took him as far away as Kuwait and Australia. While stationed at the nuclear training facility outside of Idaho Falls in 1991, he met Tara Bateman, the woman who would become his best friend and partner twenty years later. Following his time in the Navy, Jon lived in Colorado, Albuquerque, and Northern California before eventually settling in Arizona. From his previous marriage to Kimberly Cisek, Jon was blessed with three children: Aaron James “Tiger,” Macey Marin “Macey May,” and Abbie Lynne “Abbers.” He later married Tara on July 2, 2011, gaining two bonus daughters, Samantha Bateman and Amanda Harlow. Together they built a life centered on their blended family, later welcoming twins Olivia Belle “Punkin Pie” and Joseph James “Joe”.

Jon was a deeply devoted father. He was a constant presence in his children’s lives—whether cheering from the sidelines, helping with projects, running to the home improvement store, or simply showing up in the quiet, consistent ways that mattered most. He offered steady guidance, support, and care. Jon took immense pride in each of his children, supporting their individual paths and making sure every one of them felt uniquely seen, valued, and loved. His hope was always that they would carry that same sense of love and belonging forward.

Though he grew up as an only child, Jon was wholeheartedly embraced by Tara’s large family. Her parents, her seven siblings, her brothers-in-law, and her many nieces and nephews absolutely adored him.

Jon’s life was defined not by grand gestures, but by the everyday moments he gave so freely to others. His presence, his reliability, and his quiet acts of service left a lasting impact on those who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jon attended Aims Community College in Greeley, Colorado, and completed his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Phoenix. Professionally, Jon dedicated nearly 30 years to Intel Corporation as a supply chain manager, where he was a respected leader, colleague, mentor, and friend to many. Earlier this year, he began a new chapter with Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD); though his time there was brief, he made a lasting impact on his new colleagues.

Jon found joy in the outdoors, exploration, and making connections. An avid hiker, camper, and skier, he embraced every opportunity to be active and travel. This adventurous spirit gave him a truly global perspective. Jon visited over a dozen countries, developing a deep respect for diverse cultures and a profound commitment to human rights. He lived by the principle of loving his neighbor without exception, a belief he put into action daily through his generous spirit and dedicated service to his community. Jon’s life was a beautiful reflection of his curiosity, his kindness, and his unwavering belief in the dignity of all people.

Jon was a proud member of “The Holy Smokers,” a band of brothers who shared a love for weekend family BBQs and unwavering friendship. Jon passed away during a recent cabin trip surrounded by this loyal group. His family remains eternally grateful to these men, who worked tirelessly to resuscitate him until help arrived. Their final act of love and bravery perfectly mirrors the bond they shared with Jon.

Jon’s spiritual journey was rooted in his deep connection to people and the world around him. While he valued the community and friendships he built within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, his ultimate faith rested in the eternal bond of family and his Savior, Jesus Christ. Jon’s greatest belief and hope was that he would one day be reunited with his loved ones in heaven.

He is survived by his wife, Tara Bateman Goetzel; his children, Aaron Goetzel, Macey Goetzel, Abbie Goetzel, Olivia Goetzel, and Joseph Goetzel; and his stepchildren, Samantha Bateman (Jared Petry) and Amanda Harlow (Henry Clark). He is also survived by his parents, Virginia Mae Goetzel and James Renteria (Susan Renteria); his siblings, Katie Renteria and Steven Renteria; and his grandson, Lucky Lawrence Clark. Jon will be fondly remembered by the Goetzel family and the Bateman family, who loved him as one of their own.

Service Information

Location: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 21320 S Greenfield Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85298

Visitation with Family: Friday, May 1, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM

Memorial Service & Celebration of Life: Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 2:00 PM Arizona

Live Stream: For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available at https://bwevents.swoogo.com/wardbroadcast/live

2:00 PM – Arizona & California

3:00 PM – Idaho & Colorado

5:00 PM Eastern Time

Tributes: In honor of Jon’s life, flowers may be sent to the home of Jon and Jane Andersen at 2041 E Walnut Ct, Gilbert, AZ 85298.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests contributions to a memorial fund to assist with immediate expenses and the future education of Olivia and Joseph. Donations can be made via Venmo to @Tara-Goetzel (8411); please include “Memorial Fund” in the memo. A direct link for their college savings accounts will also be shared as soon as it is available.