Richard Don Jones

Richard Don Jones

Don Jones, 79, died December 19 from complications of ALS.

He was born in Bellingham, WA on December 11, 1941 and moved to Palmer with his parents as a young boy. He always considered Alaska to be his home. He attended Palmer High School, and then joined the Navy where he served on the USS Kearsarge as a catapult captain. After Navy life he became a member of the Operating Engineers, Local 302. He spent many years working as a heavy equipment operator all over Alaska as well as many years on the North Slope.

Don had two daughters, Patrice and Ilene, with his first wife, Leigh. He instilled his love of all things automotive, antiques, and the outdoors in his girls.

He married Claudianne Jones in December 1994. They had dated as teenagers so it was truly a re-pairing meant to be. They lived for several years in Palmer and had a lifetime of wonderful adventures together. They relocated to Washington State in 2012.

Don is survived by his wife, Claudianne; his daughters Patrice Jones-Spears (Brian) and Ilene Jones-Alford; his sister, Anne Brown (Ron); his brother, Brian Jones (Karen); two grandsons; several cousins, nieces and nephews; and his beloved husky, Casper.