DALE JONES Jr.

Dale Francis Jones Jr., of Mora, passed away on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at North Memorial Hospital.  He was 80 years old.

Dale was born on December 9, 1943 in Mora, Minnesota to parents Dale Sr and Lillie (Johnson) Jones.  He grew up in the Mora area, graduating from Mora High School in 1961. 

On October 18, 1963, Dale was united in marriage to Donna Raye Sjodin at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ogilvie. Soon after he enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Arlington, VA.  He was tasked with standing guard at the tomb of John F. Kennedy and received many awards and accolades for his distinguished service. While living in Arlington, VA, Dale and Donna were blessed with their only child, Curtis. 

After his discharge from the Army in 1966, the family returned to Minnesota and Dale began working for his father’s trucking company.  In 1970, Dale built the family a new home in Mora and in 1975, He bought and operated the Elco Trucking company from his father.  Dale later sold the company in 1982 and went to work as a mason and bricklayer until his retirement. 

Dale was an avid bowler, playing in multiple leagues and attending tournaments almost every weekend with Donna.  His passion and skill for bowling was passed on to his son and grandchildren.  A driving trip to Alaska in the 80’s to visit family was a highlight for Dale, Donna, and Curt. He also enjoyed golfing at least once a week, fishing when the sun was shining, playing cards and video games, and taking trips to the casino. 

After Donna’s passing in 2014, Dale had his beloved cat Tigo to keep him company.  He will be dearly missed by his son, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, wife Donna, brothers, Dennis, Michael "Mickey", Anthony "Tony", and Larry.

He is survived by his son Curtis; grandchildren, Ashley (Ken) Martin, Derek, Dylan (Kirsten), Armando, Haley, Ezekial, and Xavier; great grandchildren, Rylee, Aedon, Carter, Sadie, Senna, Jace, and Evelyn; brother Neil (Cindy); many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday, December 2, 2024 at the Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel in Mora

Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service.

Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Mora.

Military Honors will be provided by the Mora American Legion Post 201

A luncheon will follow at the Mora Masonic Hall.

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