Dan R. Jones

On Tuesday, October 18, 2016 the angels came to carry Dan away. 

A man of high intellect, Dan was a knowledgeable herpetologist and science fanatic, accomplished accordion player, and championship marksman.

He began his career as a professional photographer, first at Van Dyke Studio, then at Wes Dempster company. In 1962 he was hired by Amway “when there were only three buildings” and served there for 20 years, eventually as Manager - Creative Services. He ended his work life as Director - Creative Services at Meijer.

Dan’s good looks and sense of humor captured hearts. He was always asking the doctor for a Strohs, and was known at the dentist’s office as “Sean Connery.”

Dan was born November 4, 1937, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents: Clarence T. and Mary Ellen Jones and “Doc” Monroe and Helen Reinhard Conklin. Dan was also preceded in death by son Danny Jones.

Dan loved the sun, music and his family: His wife, Judy, whom he loved “giggles and gobs” and his children:

Michael Curtiss (Barb Clahassey); Victoria Verberg (Bob); Chris Wissman (Cindy); Tom McCarthy (Jane); 8 grand-children Mick, Mary, Anna, Sarah Verberg; Maggie and Catie Wissman; Heather and Katee McCarthy; and 2 great grand-children.

Dan is also survived by his beloved baby sister Helen Claire “Cookie” Karrip; sisters-in-law Mary Beth Norris (Bob); Lynn (Paul) Dixon; Rebecca Wilson. Dan is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, as well as long-time friends in the Central High School Class of 1956 and on Great Lakes Marina A Dock.

The family sends profound thanks to the many friends and service providers who have helped Dan on his long journey: Megan, Rob, Danita, Larry, Judy B, Ron & Phyllis, Leah, Dr. Peter Kuhl, Dave & the staff at the Chemist Shoppe, Helen, Mary Beth, Mike & Julia, and many more.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 20 from 4-7:00 p.m. at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 4291 Cascade Road, SE, Grand Rapids 49546.

A private family funeral will take place on Friday, October 21 in the Lee Chapel at Lake Forest Cemetery, Grand Haven, with luncheon following.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Dan was passionate about sailing and his treasured sailboat, the Coup Fourré. He will be laid to rest at Lake Forest Cemetery, Grand Haven, in the dunes above L-ake Michigan from where he can sail forever into the sunset.

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