RALPH STEWART JONES,
OCTOBER 9, 1922-DECEMBER 5, 2015
Peacefully at Algonquin Grace Hospice, in Huntsville, Ontario, on Saturday, December 5, 2015, at the excellent age of 93. Survived by four children: Donald (Frances), Robert (Paula), Elizabeth and Margaret; and by sister Lillian (age 102). Predeceased by Frances his wife of 63 years, daughter Mary Frances, brother Frederick and sister Leslie. Grandad to Hillary, Rosalind, Ginny (Ben) and Stefan.
Ralph served in the RCAF (training) during WW2 and graduated from University of Toronto, Victoria College in 1948. He was called to the bar of Ontario in 1949. He established the law firms of Jones & Jones followed by Jones & Hughes. He enjoyed, and prospered in, the residential development business with partnerships Urban Homes and Durham Homes.
He was a longtime supporter of Oshawa and District Community Living, Huntsville Community Living and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. He was a proud supporter of the Liberal Parties of Canada and Ontario, and was elected to the Oshawa Board of Control.
With his wife Frances he created lovely homes in Oshawa and Huntsville, where they were always welcoming to friends and family. Ralph and Frances opened their doors to many gatherings of charitable groups, civic organizations and political events.
Ralph was a proud charter member of Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Club and enjoyed skiing into his 90th year. He loved cruising on the Trent-Severn and Georgian waterways. He engaged in boating and sailing on both the Kawartha and Muskoka Lakes. He and Frances took many wonderful vacations with good friends.
In his final three years Ralph loved sharing time with his good friend and partner Jean Hobson. Together they enjoyed Probus Club, bridge playing, dining-in group, and many pleasant drives to visit their friends and families. It was a beautiful last chapter to a long and well-lived life, a time when Ralph’s love of life and humour was shared with anyone and everyone.
Thanks to the wonderful staff at both Huntsville Hospital and Hospice Huntsville for their assistance during Ralph’s brief final challenges. He was very lucky to avoid any serious health issues during his long and happy life.
Ralph’s Celebration of Life will be held on Friday December 18th at 1:00 pm at Hidden Valley Ski Club in the Members Lounge.
1655 Hidden Valley Road, Huntsville, On P1H 1A4 705-789-1773
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Huntsville or Oshawa Community living or Algonquin Grace Hospice, Huntsville, would be appreciated.
Jane and Dave McPhee
We are delighted to have met Ralph and Frances at their first Probus meeting some years ago. Frances always had a big smile and Ralph always kidded us about our animal obsession. Ralph was a joy to be around. We enjoyed each others company at the Zellers restaurant for “Senior”” fish and chips until the store closed. Many great moments will be remembered. Ralph’s sharp wit and sense of humour made each visit enjoyable. We will dearly miss him….God bless him. Jane and Dave McPhee”
Khris Morine and Emily Johnston
We read Ralph’s obituary with sadness but fond memories. The charm, wit and humour he added to Windsong vacations will always be remembered. We miss you all.
Gail and Ivor Wray
It was our privilege to enjoy Ralphs friendship and humour at Probus meetings and road trips. His greetings and hugs will be missed.
It was also with pleasure I was able to the of service to him during his stay at Hospice.
Sincerely Gail and Ivor Wray
John and Linda Harti
Our condolences go to all of Ralph’s family, and particularly to his daughter, Liz. Your dad definitely had a remarkable life, and , through meeting him several times, at Probus-related events, we came to appreciate his humour and his very positive outlook. We celebrate his life with you, and we send loving thoughts to you.
Shari Comerford
Dear Don & Frances, Roz, Hil and family;My thoughts are with you today as you celebrate Ralph’s life. I wish you peace in the knowledge that he is at rest; comfort in the knowledge that he lived a long and fruitful life; and, joy in your wonderful memories of him in the years to come. Shari
David and Joanie Lough
What a great neighbour and friend. Always interesting and full of life. Rest well.
Terri Gray
On behalf of Community Living Oshawa Clarington, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Ralph’s family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Ralph made a significant contribution to Community Living over the years and he will be greatly missed.
Petrina Peyton
I extend my deepest sympathy to the Jones family during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Geoff Morris
Ralph was an inspiration,always so happy and positive,always had a joke to tell,I’m so lucky to have known him and will miss him big time.