SAN JOSE / UNION CITY, Calif. — Family, friends, colleagues, and communities across San Jose and Union City are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Jonathan Kha, a respected public health advocate and community leader who died following a river rafting accident in Colorado on Sunday, July 12, 2026. He was 25.
According to reports, Jonathan was involved in a rafting outing at Cherry Creek Reservoir when strong winds created hazardous conditions on the water. The inflatable raft carrying Jonathan and others encountered difficulties, and while several occupants were able to make it safely back to shore, Jonathan went underwater and did not resurface. Emergency rescue teams responded and later recovered him.
His sudden passing has left loved ones devastated and prompted an outpouring of tributes from classmates, coworkers, and community organizations who remember him as a compassionate advocate dedicated to improving the lives of others.
A Life of Service and Advocacy
Jonathan graduated from James Logan High School in 2019 before attending the University of California, Davis, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology in 2023. He later completed a Master of Public Health in General Public Health and Epidemiology at the UC Davis School of Medicine in 2024.
During his time at UC Davis, Jonathan became an active student leader, serving with the Vietnamese Student Association and mentoring fellow students. He also worked as a student instructor, helping educate others on healthcare systems, health equity, and social justice.
Professionally, Jonathan served as a Community Healing Unit Program Coordinator with Asian Health Services in Alameda County. In that role, he worked to connect individuals affected by trauma, violence, and discrimination with culturally responsive resources and support, reflecting his lifelong commitment to community health and healing.
Remembered for His Kindness
Those who knew Jonathan describe him as someone who led with empathy, generosity, and genuine care for others. Friends recall his warm personality, infectious optimism, and unwavering willingness to help those in need.
His colleagues admired his dedication to public service, while community members remember him as someone who consistently sought to create meaningful change through compassion and advocacy.
Following news of his death, tributes have poured in celebrating not only his professional accomplishments but also the lasting friendships and connections he built throughout his life.
Family and Legacy
Jonathan is survived by his partner of five years, Ramon, his parents, extended family, friends, colleagues, and the many communities he served.
His loved ones say they will honor his memory by continuing the values he embodied—kindness, courage, inclusion, and service to others.
Funeral Arrangements
At the time of publication, funeral and memorial service arrangements have not been publicly announced. The family is expected to share additional details in the coming days and has requested privacy as they grieve this profound loss.
Jonathan Kha’s legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched, the communities he strengthened, and the compassion he demonstrated every day. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.