Jon Moran

Jon Moran’s early childhood could be labeled as nothing short of ideal. He had a good home, loving parents and a classic, suburban neighborhood to grow up in as the younger brother of Mike Moran; they navigated the twists and turns of growing up. Though his family was not rich, he wanted for little. His father was a podiatrist who instilled a love of photography as well as a passion for pool in his son. His mother was businesslike working in an office. And as a teen, Jon developed a love for cars and motorcycles. Upon graduating from high school, the Vietnam War was rearing its ugly head, and Jon was drafted into the Marines serving his two-year stint in the mid 60’s. While there, a bomb exploded in a rice paddy which left shrapnel in his back. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his sacrifice and valor. When he returned home, he, like many of his peers, struggled to find their next “mission” in civilian life. After some time readjusting to a life at home again, he eventually signed up for art school at the Chicago Academy of the Fine Arts with the goal of becoming a graphic designer. Jon found several teachers who opened up his understanding and love of designing and its philosophy. Finding a sense of his own future, art school reshaped him and became the foundation for the rest of his life. He also met his future wife, Janis, who was taking design classes as well; design connected them. They married in 1975 and moved to Munster, Indiana where together they created a business called Moran Design Corporation providing graphic design services to a multitude of different clients and businesses. They also involved themselves in the community offering free design assistance to non-profits and art organizations. Jon always maintained a certain sense of youthfulness. He enjoyed roller skating and golf for fun and exercise. He had pin ball machines, a pool table belonging to his dad and all sorts of boy toys. He always was a unique individual who thought outside the box and was perpetually observant. He was never afraid to express his opinions no matter what, and he had an intense sense of self. He was a diehard motorcycle enthusiast graduating from chopped Harley’s in his early years to Japanese ‘crotch rockets’ that went really fast later on. He traveled all over the United States on his bikes taking long trips by himself. In 1999, Jon divorced Janis and moved on to St. Louis Missouri. It was on one of those bike trips that Jon discovered an empty historic building in the small town of Louisiana, MO. In 2002, he opened his studio and gallery – Studio at Seventh – offering sculptures and 2-dimensional art. Jon served on many committees including, but not limited to: Louisiana Economic Development Committee, Pike County Tourism Board, The Louisiana Visitors and Convention Bureau, and the Chamber of Commerce. In fact, He was selected as the Louisiana Chamber Citizen of the Year in 2010. Jon worked on the DREAM Initiative and donated countless hours to Colorfest promotions, the Winter River Festivals, other projects throughout the community, and he was a stalwart and unwavering volunteer with the Raintree Arts Council. With that said, the Raintree Arts Council has created the Jon D. Moran Memorial Scholarship. In Jon’s honor and memory, please consider a donation to that scholarship. Send your donation to Raintree Arts Committee c/o 1905 Georgia St. Louisiana, MO, 63353. Jon Moran was a really good guy and friend to many. He is already missed.

Jon Moran

May 19, 1946 - June 18, 2025