Keith Jones: 1923-2012

SooToday.com received the following announcement today from the Menard Funeral Home in Blind River regarding World War II veteran, Keith Jones.

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Jones, Keith Louis - On Tuesday, September 18, 2012, Blind River, Ontario, Keith Jones peacefully passed away in his 89th year, surrounded by his loving family. 

Predeceased by his cherished wife Joanne.  

Beloved father of Debbie Reed (Kevin), Janet Jones (John), Lori de Vlugt (Paul), David Jones (Kim), Mary Beth Roy (H.P.). 

Cherished grandfather of Jeremy Newton, Gilbert Roy, Brad and Jeff de Vlugt, Tabitha Arnold, and Ciara Jones. 

Brother of Kenneth Jones (Jo), and predeceased by brothers Lloyd Jones (Clarissa), Morris Jones (Doris and Vi) all of St. Thomas. 

Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

At the age of 17, Keith willingly enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy.

He proudly served on convoys crossing the north Atlantic throughout the Second World War.

Keith had two passions; following the war he became a brick layer and stone mason. 

He loved his trade and continued working with stone well into his retirement years. 

Music was his other passion.

As a teen he played snare drum with the Elgin Regiment.  

Keith taught himself to play guitar at the age of 37. 

In his late 70’s he played snare drum for a local pipe band, and played his homemade bass with a local band.

His whistling, strumming and great sense of humour will always be fondly remembered.

Originally from St. Thomas, Keith and his family lived in Iron Bridge for 32 years, he later resided in Blind River, and Elliot Lake.

Resting at the Menard Funeral Home, Blind River, where friends may call on Saturday, September 22, 2012 from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at 1 p.m. 

Interment will take place on Monday, September 24, 2012 at Elmdale Memorial Park, St. Thomas at 11 a.m.

Donations to the Royal Canadian Legion Br.189, and the Blind River District Health Centre Foundation gratefully accepted.

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