Jon “JD” Dworkow, beloved son, brother and uncle passed away on August 2, 2026. Jonny, as his family affectionately called him, 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 local Westport band the Dirty Angels, he got his first big break working for Peter Frampton. 

His music career advanced to international touring as a guitar tech, equipment manager, stage manager and sometimes tour manager with numerous other performers including The Rolling Stones, Jeff Beck, Bon Jovi, Billy Idol and Joan Jett and the Black Hearts. 

Following his time as a guitar tech for Prince, Jonny 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 Smithsonian.

When he left life on the road, and sometimes in between, he worked on many notable productions and musical festivals, such as Sting’s Rainforest Benefit concerts. In later years his creative spirit and keen eye turned to photography, beginning with his poignant tree 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. 

Jonny was incredibly humble and 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.

Jonny is survived by his mother, Estelle Dworkow, his sister Laurie Crouse, His niece Alyssa Crouse (Ember McGuire) and 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 Church (UU) in Westport, CT at 3:00 on Sunday, September 27, 2026. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to The C. Anthony and Jean Whittingham Cancer Center. Please make checks payable to the Norwalk Hospital Foundation at 34 Maple Street, Norwalk CT 06850.