Madison- Wilbur R. “Bill” Jones, age 88, passed away peacefully on Thursday July 16, 2020 at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg surrounded by family. He was born April 28, 1932 in Oxford to the late Harvey and Esther(Holtz)Jones. Bill married Ada Ann Kemnitz on November 8, 1952 in Oxford. He served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War as a Forward Observer, where he earned his Purple Heart. He later was stationed in Munich, Germany. Bill was extremely proud of his military service. Bill was a member of the VFW Post 6003 in Oxford and the American Legion Post 501 in Madison. He worked for the City of Madison and retired after 35 years as the manager of Forest Hill Cemetery. As manager Bill took great pride in establishing historical tours of the cemetery, which continue to happen today. Bill was a longtime member of the Masons and a Shriner. He participated in the Arab Patrol, which was a precision marching unit.
Bill enjoyed hunting and fishing in his free time for many years. He would often enjoy a DAB beer at the Essen Haus and always had a joke and a good story to tell. Another favorite pastime of Bill’s was cooking. He was very creative and messy in the kitchen. His specialty was spaghetti sauce for “Spaghetti on the Board”, homemade baklava and baked beans. Bill enjoyed traveling with his beloved wife Ada. They ventured to Europe several times, as well as all 50 states and Canada. Family was very important to Bill. He always loved the large gatherings with all of his children, grandchildren and great- grandchildren.
Bill is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ada; 3 children Terri (Glen) Fischer, Richard (Kathleen)Jones and Jacqueline(David) Tadych; 7 grandchildren, Heather Zimmerman, Grant Fischer, Paul Tadych, Samantha Tadych, Jacob Jones, Danielle Tadych and Nicole Jones; 6 great grandchildren Tanner, Caydence and Boston Zimmerman, Hunter and Riley Tadych and Kinley Jones; brother Harvey “Bud”(Barb) Jones and is further survived by nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
A public visitation will be from 10:00 Am until 12 Noon on Wednesday July 22, 2020 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3325 East Washington Ave, Madison, a mask is required in Dane County. A private graveside service will be held at Forest Hill Cemetery.
Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3325 E. Washington Ave.
Madison (608) 249-6666
Wednesday, July 22, 2020
10:00am - 12:00 pm (Central time)
Cress Funeral Service
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