Neil Lorne Jones

JONES, Neil Lorne

It is with profound sadness that the family of Neil Jones announces his unexpected passing as the result of an accident on the morning of November 13, 2022. He was in his 75th year.

Neil was predeceased by his parents Harold Lorne Jones (1992) and Iola Evlyn Jones (nee Ellis, 2006), and three infant brothers (1946, 1947). He is predeceased by parents-in-law, Dorothy (nee Hall, 1993) and William Redmond (1956), and brother-in-law, Michael Redmond (2013).

He is survived by his loving wife, Debbie (nee Redmond); his children Chris (Crystal) and Andrea (Noel) Stonehouse; grandchildren, Vera and Walter Stonehouse and Henry Jones; sister, Darlene Robichaud (Garry); brother-in-law, Bill Redmond (Beryl); sister-in-law, Judy Redmond (Brian); nephews, Aaron, Will, Sean, and Paul; and several great-nephews and great-nieces.

Neil was born in Newmarket, Ontario and grew up on the family farm in Zephyr, Ontario, where he was operating the tractor by the age of six. He often regaled the family with stories of growing up on the farm and there is no doubt that his love for heavy machinery stemmed from his childhood. As a young man, Neil worked for Otis Elevators for several years. In 1971, he met Debbie in Toronto. After a three-year courtship, they married in June of 1974. They moved from Toronto to the North Bay area and then purchased their home in rural Callander in early 1977. They were blessed with two children and three sweet grandchildren.

Neil never shied away from hard work. He purchased his first gravel truck in 1976. He was the sole proprietor of Neil Jones Construction, a business he operated for nearly 50 years. He was dedicated to serving his customers and established a reputation for dependability and quality workmanship. He took on a variety of haulage and construction jobs, and he plowed and hauled snow in the winters.

Despite his admitted status as a workaholic, Neil enjoyed many pastimes with family and friends. He was an avid curler—a hobby he enjoyed with Debbie and many valued friends at the Nosbonsing, Powassan, and Granite curling clubs. He planted an elaborate garden every year, and the resulting vegetables and preserves were shared widely. His infamous hot sauce and delicious jams were a source of pride. He enjoyed experimenting in the kitchen. He regularly baked muffins; he cooked soups, sauces, and stews, usually measuring with his heart; and he made sausages annually with Chris. He spent many hours boating, fishing, and hunting with cherished friends.

The Jones family will receive visitors at the Paul Funeral Home, Powassan, on Friday, November 18, 2022 from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 pm, and on Saturday, November 19 from 10:00 to 11:00 am. The funeral service will take place at 11:00 am and will be live-streamed (see link below).

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and current cold & flu season, visitors are respectfully requested to wear a mask for everyone’s protection.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the North Bay Regional Health Centre Foundation (nbrhc.on.ca/foundation), Arthritis Society Canada (arthritis.ca), or a Food Bank of your choice, are suggested.

To leave a memory or tribute for the family, please visit paulfuneralhome.ca or call the Paul Funeral Home, 705-724-2024.