Jon Box Celebration of Life Raises Over $30K

By Karen Bliss

A concert and silent auction to celebrate the life of music industry veteran Jon Box raised more than $30,000 from ticket sales and a silent auction.

Box, who was vice-president of label partnerships and business development at Universal Music Canada, lost his battle with mental illness last September at the age of 45.

“We are all fragile in some way and we all need some sort of support,” said his widow Heather Wright from the Opera House stage in Toronto Feb. 8.  “So, remember to be gentle and patient with one another and with yourselves.

“If I can ask you to take one thing away from tonight, it would be to remember that time and circumstance are temporary and ever-changing. Please don't let one thing define you. It's only a piece of you.”

Monies raised will be split between the Unison Benevolent Fund, which provides emergency relief and funds for members of the Canadian music industry; and Toronto-based Dr. Jay’s Children’s Grief Centre which provides support for young people experiencing loss.

“Everyone at Unison, your organization was valuable to Jon and he couldn't help to raise the funds themselves this year so I'm honoured to have been able to assist you in some way,” said Wright, adding, “and thank you so much for helping to coordinate and for managing a silent auction.” – Continue reading Karen Bliss’s report on the Samaritanmagwebsite.