Walter Jones

Walter Jones, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 26 at the age of 86, surrounded by his loved ones.

Walter was born on November 20th, 1937 in Toronto, Ontario. He married his loving wife Barbara on July 28th, 1961. They bought their first house on Drava St., Bay Ridges, Pickering. Over their incredible 63 year marriage, together, they raised three children: Christopher (Mary), Jennifer (Mike), and Alison (Tony) in Pickering, Whitby, Bolsover and Lindsay.

Walter was a devoted family man. Without a doubt, his favorite activity was spending time with his wife Barbara, their children, their grandchildren Megan (Mark), Matthew (Danyka), Taylor (Jake), James, John (Brittany), Suzie (Nick) Josh, Bailey (Bryce) and his great-grandchildren Lucas and Malcolm.

Walter was known for his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering love for his family. Walter was an avid animal lover and had many beloved pets over the years, Honey, Maggie, Sparky, Tasha, Mitsy, Lily and Stanley. 

Walter started his long career as a salesman with Smith Transport and worked up to a Regional Sales Manager with CP Transport and Express for 4 decades, making connections with clients and businesses all over the country. He was very proud of his work and was always understated in his many awards and achievements. He was an incredibly hard worker and an excellent salesman;  If you knew Walter, this wouldn’t be a surprise to you.

Walter's second home was "The Cottage" through the warm summers in Munn Bay in Belmont Lake. The family's personal oasis.  Walter would spend the summers working on renovations, spending time with his family, socializing, boating and napping in the warm sun.             

Walter wouldn't go long without listening to Big Band, Classical, Luciano Pavarotti and of course Ol' Blue Eyes; from 12-inch vinyl records, all the way to asking Alexa to play a tune, he was always a great lover of music. He was also a history buff. He could recite dates and outcomes of great battles, the feats of great leaders and the engineering achievements of the Armed Forces and the Navy.

Walter loved the holiday season, he loved giving gifts, but he also loved getting gifts, often proclaiming "where are MY presents?!". A late November Birthday usually led to the Santa Claus Parade falling around his birthday, if not on his birthday. Walter had a lifelong passion for hockey. He instilled that love in his children and grandchildren. He was a dedicated volunteer coach, scout, and mentor for many young hockey players in the community. The winter always seemed to be his favorite time of year with the upcoming holidays, Hockey and snow-blowing season. As someone who was incredibly organized and well spoken,  Walter would think this epitaphic could use another draft and think it's overly “sucky” but too bad Grandad.

Walter and Barbara were actively involved in their neighbourhood and community. Through the course of his volunteering work, his contributions are almost beyond belief. He was known for his generosity and willingness to help others. He received many awards and accolades from Members of Parliament of the Town of Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock.  In 2022, he was awarded a Volunteer Service Award from the Province of Ontario for decades of dedicated service;. He was a member of the Beaverton Seniors in an executive role and volunteered his time to its members and various local organizations.

In a world where everything seems temporary and superficial, Walter was a steadfast anchor. He was timeless. He'd shake your hand, remember your name, and delve into your story, proving that true connection was still possible.  The void left by his passing will be felt for decades to come as his presence and personality shone brighter than most. Don't worry about the lawn or the toolshed in the afterlife; Walter has the yardwork covered. Walter will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends. To conclude with a quote from his favorite movie, It's A Wonderful Life. In the movie, Clarence tells George, "Each man's life touches so many other lives. And when he isn't around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?"

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to your local SPCA