MERVYN (MERV) JONES

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MERVYN (MERV) JONES On February 2, 2010, at the age of 79, Mervyn Jones passed away peacefully at the Grace Hospice after a brief illness. Left to cherish his memory and outgoing spirit is his wife Gwyneth Jones (nee Rosser) of 55 years; two children David and Shan; grandchildren Stephan and Peyton Pereux; sisters Beryl Doherty of Toronto and Maureen MacDonald of Ajax, Ontario; nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and his little Yorkshire Terrier named Ted. Dad was born July 17, 1930 in Toronto, Ontario. He grew up playing many sports including hockey, baseball and curling. Through the years, his love of sports transferred from the field to the television, where he spent many weekends cheering for his favourite teams. Dad was proud to be active in his community and served as a member of the Mental Health Review Board and was President of the St. James Seniors Centre. He was also involved in the political arena and enjoyed volunteering his services for fundraising and outreach. Dad was very proud of his summer pizza business at Falcon Lake, Manitoba which he ran many years ago. After selling the business and cabin at Falcon, he and Mom purchased a lakefront cabin at Twin Beaches. Dad was very fond of the sunsets at the lake and enjoyed capturing many of them on camera with our dear family friend Anne. Dad and Mom also enjoyed the many neighbours and friends they made at the lake, in particular, the Gaudes Family, who were always willing to assist with various chores around the cabin. Dad and Mom were also fortunate to have spent many winters in Pheonix as well as Palm Springs, where they once again, made many friends. Dad was an avid golfer and enjoyed his membership at St. Charles Country Club where he met many of his lifetime golfing buddies. Sadly, two years ago, Dad hung up his golf clubs after having eye surgery which impaired his vision. Despite this, he remained a member of St. Charles and continued to enjoy the many friendships that had been cultivated over the years. Dad also loved learning and knowing about the birds of Manitoba. He was always quick to tell everyone what bird they were looking at, its habits and how it survives the winters. Dad and Mom were also members of Bethesda Church many years ago and developed friendships through this community which they still held today. Dad had a perpetually positive spirit, always embracing life with an inner peace that most individuals would envy. Even through difficult times, Dad's tenacious optimism prevailed with grace. The family wishes to express a sincere thank you to Dr. Pat Harris at the Grace Hospital, the wonderful nurses and support staff at the Grace Hospice, and the many family and friends who sent their prayers and well wishes to our family during this difficult time. Dad - You were the most incredible Father who will always remain our hero; Until we meet again, thank you for your teachings of faith, grace, and commitment! In accordance with Dad's wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal service will be held. If friends and family so desire, a donation can be made in Dad's name to: The Grace Hospice, 260 Booth Drive, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3J 3R5.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 05, 2010