Westport native and frequent “06880” photographer Jon “JD” Dworkow died Sunday, after an inspiring and spirited fight against pancreatic cancer.
His obituary notes, “He frequently said he was the luckiest guy in the world, and marveled at how his life in the music world unfolded.”
After his first experience supporting the Westport band the Dirty Angels, he got his first big break working for Peter Frampton. His career advanced to international touring as a guitar tech, equipment manager, stage manager and sometimes tour manager, with performers including the Rolling Stones, Jeff Beck, Bon Jovi, Billy Idol, and Joan Jett & the Blackhearts.
After working as a guitar tech for Prince, JD donated his notebook, filled with detailed notes that provided “new insights into the labor that went on behind the scenes during one of the most influential concert tours of the 1980’s” to the National Museum of American History archives of the the Smithsonian.
When he left life on the road, and sometimes in between, he worked on notable productions and musical festivals, such as Sting’s Rainforest Benefit concerts.
In later years his creative spirit and keen eye turned to photography. He began with a poignant series at Calf Pasture Beach, featuring a lone tree that he shot during each season.
He also captured many iconic photographs at Compo Beach and around his hometown of Westport.
His family says, “JD was humble. He said he did not want to be remembered by his musical connections, but rather by the lasting impression he made on his loyal friends and acquaintances alike. His magnetism, integrity, kindness, generosity of spirit and quick wit were just some of the traits that attracted and endeared people to him.”
He is survived by his mother, Estelle Dworkow; sister Laurie Crouse; niece Alyssa Crouse (Ember McGuire); nephew Cimarron Crouse (Rebecca Crouse), and grand-nieces Olivia, Serena and Summer Rose. He was predeceased by his father, Sol Dworkow.
A celebration of life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport on September 27 (3 p.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the C. Anthony and Jean Whittingham Cancer Center (c/o Norwalk Hospital Foundation at 34 Maple Street, Norwalk CT 06850.
Jon “JD” Dworkow
Old Mill (Photo/JD Dworkow)
White birch tree, Long Lots Road (Photo/JD Dworkow)
Nyala Farm (Photo/JD Dworkow)
Compo Beach sunset (Photo/JD Dworkow)
Longshore gazebo (Photo/JD Dworkow)
Awesome friend and could always be spotted walking Compo and Saugatuck at all times. We’ll miss you JD ❤️
I’m so sorry to read this. I’ve known Jon for as long as I can remember. I will miss our Compo Beach chats. Condolences to Estelle and Laurie.
A Beautiful Life well lived and loved! God Bless and Rest you!
An excellent photographer and generous in his praise of others.
It was a pleasure getting to meet and chat with JD during some Compo strolls .
Wonderful photographer that captured Westport so well.
My condolences to his family and friends
We started in music at The Players Tavern and moved equipment together a sweet heart always positive and very humble when he would be in town he would meet me at a venue and we catch up .A life of giving he gave freely and a great listener JD buddy thanks for all the lessons. DB Don Bratz