Former Fresno Grizzlies Player Jon Kemmer Tragically Killed in Car Crash

Kemmer remembered for his kindness, generosity, and impact on the Fresno community

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:33am

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A cubist, fragmented painting depicting a baseball game or match, with sharp geometric planes in shades of blue, green, and ochre, conveying the dynamic spirit of the sport and the life of the former player being remembered.The vibrant, geometric deconstruction of a baseball game captures the raw energy and passion that defined Jon Kemmer's life on and off the field.Fresno Today

Jon Kemmer, a former player for the Fresno Grizzlies minor league baseball team, was tragically killed in a car crash in Texas on April 12, 2026. Kemmer, 35, was remembered by former Grizzlies president Derek Franks as a beloved teammate and community member who was always willing to give back, whether it was visiting patients at Valley Children's Hospital or coaching youth baseball. Kemmer leaves behind his wife and two young children.

Why it matters

Kemmer's passing has deeply impacted the Fresno community, where he was known as a kind-hearted and generous person who made a lasting impression on those he met. His tragic death at a young age has prompted an outpouring of grief and support for his family.

The details

Kemmer was driving home from coaching his youth baseball team in Texas when the fatal car crash occurred on April 12. He had played for the Fresno Grizzlies, the Houston Astros' minor league affiliate, from 2016 to 2018, making a strong impression on the team and the community. Franks recalled Kemmer as someone who was always willing to give back, whether it was visiting patients at the local children's hospital or supporting the team in other community efforts.

  • Kemmer played for the Fresno Grizzlies from 2016 to 2018.
  • Kemmer was tragically killed in a car crash on April 12, 2026.

The players

Jon Kemmer

A former player for the Fresno Grizzlies minor league baseball team who was remembered for his kindness, generosity, and impact on the local community.

Derek Franks

The former president of the Fresno Grizzlies, who spoke fondly of Kemmer's personality and community involvement.

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What they’re saying

“He's just one of those guys that when you meet him, you feel like you've known him your whole life.”

— Derek Franks, Former Fresno Grizzlies President

“He just had one of those personalities that's really endearing and a really sweetheart of a guy.”

— Derek Franks, Former Fresno Grizzlies President

“If the team ever needed somebody… whether it was going to Valley Children's Hospital… Jon was always the guy to raise his hand.”

— Derek Franks, Former Fresno Grizzlies President

What’s next

A GoFundMe has been set up to support Kemmer's wife and two children following his tragic passing.

The takeaway

Kemmer's death has left a profound impact on the Fresno community, where he was remembered as a kind, generous, and beloved figure who made a lasting impression through his involvement with the Grizzlies and his commitment to supporting local causes and youth programs.