Kenneth F Jones

Kenneth Francis Jones was a man of many talents and passions who touched the lives of those around him with his kind and cheerful spirit. Born on September 17, 1941, in Salt Lake City to Gwilym F. and Mamie L. Jones, He married Nancy K. Tollefson on August 12^th, 1964, in Bountiful, Utah and later sealed in the Salt Lake City LDS temple. Ken’s journey on this earth came to a peaceful end on April 5, 2024, in Bountiful, Utah.

Throughout his life, Ken wore many hats professionally, excelling in various roles. From owning his own business, Accurate Appraisal to his time as a Property Tax Manager for Marriott International and later for Sinclair Oil Company, He finished up his career as a Paralegal at Edgmon Law Offices, he brought dedication and diligence to everything he pursued.

A significant chapter of Major Jones career was his military service, where he served with pride and distinction. His time serving in Special Forces (Green Beret), and paratroopers (Airborne), held special meaning for him. He had more than 300 jumps in multiple countries while serving in the Utah National Guard. He began his career as a full-time parachute rigger, moved on to Officer Candidate School and became an officer. After earning his Special Forces tab, he became a Detachment Commander of a Special Forces Team. He retired from the military as the Group Operations Officer S3 of the 1^st Battalion 19^th Special Forces Group. His commitment to serving his country was unwavering.

In the academic sphere, Ken acquired knowledge and skills that would shape his professional journey. He graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in Accounting and later pursued a master's degree in Public Relations from BYU. Education was a lifelong pursuit for Ken, always striving to expand his horizons.

Outside of work and academics, Ken's vibrant personality shone through. Described as clean-cut and good-looking, especially in uniform, he had a way of making everyone around him feel valued and appreciated. A natural optimist and peacemaker, Ken's presence brought light wherever he went. His love for people was evident in all his interactions.

Ken had a wide range of interests that brought him joy, from spending quality time with family and friends including walking and spoiling Cooper his dog.  He loved reading from his extensive library of war and history books. After retiring he discovered a passion for RC model airplanes. His collection of planes was a testament to his enthusiasm for this new hobby, which he continued to enjoy until his final days.

He was an active member of the LDS church where he served in multiple capacities, including Scouting.  He worked in the Bountiful LDS temple serving with his sweetheart for over 10 years.

Ken had a love for sports, especially football and was a University of Utah season ticket holder for many years. Among his proudest accomplishments was the honor of marrying two of his children, daughter Kasey to her husband DJ and Sean to his wife Carmel. Among other treasured memories was the opportunity for Ken and Nancy to volunteer as host for the 2002 Winter Olympics, where they welcomed the world to Utah,

Ken's legacy lives on through his beloved wife of 60 years, Nancy, their four children: Sean (Carmel) Jones, Dustin (Heather) Jones, Heather (Brian) Johnson, Kasey (D.J.) Walker; along with their thirteen grandchildren and dog Cooper who brought him immense joy. Preceded in death by his parents, brother Ron Hansen, and sister Bonnie Quigley.

As family and friends gather to pay their respects at the funeral service scheduled for April 19^th, 2024, at Maple Hills Chapel in Utah, let us remember Kenneth Francis Jones as a man whose warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him. May he rest in peace knowing that he was cherished by many and leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will endure through the ages.