Jon Jerome Runge

Jon Jerome Runge, cherished Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Friend, passed away peacefully in Greenville, SC, on January 21, 2024. Jon was born in Baltimore, MD on February 12, 1944. He is preceded in death by his father, John, and his mother, Ruth. Jon is survived by his wife, Mimi Runge, whom he married on April 21, 1978. Together, the two welcomed five children into the world: David (and his wife Katy) Runge; Sarah Runge (and life partner Tim Curtis); Paul (and his wife Macie) Runge; Matthew (and his wife Ciji) Runge; and Emily (and her husband Jeremy) Webb. Jon is also father to Theresa (and her husband Chris) Southerland. Jon greatly enjoyed his role as “Da” to his Grandchildren: Meghan, Elizabeth, Daniel, and John Runge; Hallie, Eleanor, Miller, and Libby Runge; Ava and Ellie Runge; Ruby, Judah, Hazel, Della, and Josiah Webb; and Reagan and Steele Southerland. Jon was also affectionally known as “Papa Jon” to his Grandson Isaac Wigington.

Jon’s academic pursuits led him to receive his BA in Chemistry from the University of Florida; his MA in Physics from Florida State University; and his MD from the University of Miami School of Medicine. Jon spent time teaching abroad, and also at home, personally overseeing the education of his children.

While in medical school, Jon received his life callings. First, to follow Jesus in his life; second, to follow Jesus in math and physics. Jon loved the Holy Word of God and taught it to his children. He invested countless hours in prayer over his family and loved ones, his friends and acquaintances, and his country. His greatest desire was that his children and family might come to know the love of God. He was a deep thinker, laboring to describe the nature of truth in the language of mathematics. He was a prolific writer, producing volumes of papers on the intersection of faith and physics.

As we say our final goodbye to Jon Runge, we celebrate him as a genuine man of faith and principle. We hold close the memories, and the time shared and carry on his legacy in the everyday moments of our lives. A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held on February 12th, 2024 at The Chapel at Mountain Springs in Piedmont, SC at 3 p.m.

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