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ROBERT EDWARD JONES Obituary pic ROBERT EDWARD JONES Obituary pic

ROBERT EDWARD JONES

Born: Mar 02, 1931

Date of Passing: Mar 12, 2015

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ROBERT (BOBBY) EDWARD JONES March 2, 1931 - March 12, 2015 It is with great sadness the family of Robert (Bobby) Edward Jones announces his passing on Thursday, March 12, 2015. He will be missed by his beloved wife of 43 years, Arlene Draffin Jones, son Richard Jones, daughter-in-law, Maryanne (Bowcott), brother Barry (Edmonton), grandchildren Kendra (John Sparrow), Rebekah, Jennifer (Tom Boomer) and Kevin, and great-grandchildren: Sarah Sparrow, Thomas and Griffin Boomer. He will be remembered with fondness by sister-in-law Diane and her husband Robert Leinweber, and the rest of Arlene's family. Bobby was predeceased by his father Howard Jones and mother Mary (Ozubka), his first wife Elizabeth (Betty) Timmer, son Larry, infant daughter Jacqueline, sister Carol Savage, brother-in-law Jack Savage, and nephew Michael Savage. For over 50 years Bobby was active in the sport of Amateur Olympic and Professional Wrestling as a competitor, coach, manager, administrator, and official. He always gave credit to the Central YMCA where he started as an amateur at age 17 for his career as a wrestler. In 1952 he acquired Professional status and wrestled in the USA and Canada with the AWA. Bobby was also a baseball pitcher playing in the industrial league. But his love of amateur sport remained. He introduced and conducted kids and youth wrestling in community centres, clubs, schools and First Nation communities throughout Winnipeg and the province. In 1967 Bobby was the Manager for the Manitoba Wrestling Team at the First Canada Winter Games in Quebec City and Coach of the Manitoba Wrestling Team at the First Canadian Junior Olympic Wrestling Championships in Edmonton in 1974. He served as an official at the 1979 Canada Winter Games in Brandon and the 1990 Western Canada Summer Games. He was the founder and editor of the publication "Manitoba Let's Wrestle", produced and hosted a weekly television program: "Let's Wrestle Manitoba". Bobby graduated in Recreation Studies from the University of Western Ontario, and in Business Administration from Red River College. He worked as Recreation Director and Counselor at Knowles School for Boys (now Knowles Centre) and in 1962 began his career as Recreation Supervisor and Superintendent with City of Winnipeg Parks and Recreation Department. As a dedicated community member over the years, Bobby served on the Board of Directors for the Native Effort for Talent program, President of Acqua Percept Inc. (a national adaptive swim/gym program to develop motor skills); President of Manitoba Parks and Recreation Association; Manitoba Society of Seniors Board of Directors and Chair of the MSOS 55 Plus Games; and Board of Directors, Age and Opportunity and the Canada Seniors Games Association and a member of the 1991 Grey Cup Parade Committee. He was the Host and co-producer of "Seniors On The Move" Shaw Cablevision program for eight years. In the past few years Bobby's interest found him on the Board of the Seven Oaks Historical Society and the Luxton Residents Association. Both he and Arlene belong to the Compassionate Friends and are members of Westminster United Church. After retirement from the City of Winnipeg Bobby and Arlene operated a Bed and Breakfast in their home "Bannerman East" for 15 years where people from all over the world enjoyed Bobby's homemade bread and hospitality. A keen fitness buff he was a regular at Sargent Park Recreation Centre (Cindy Klassen Centre). Movies (10 locally filmed), musical theatre (played in "Oliver" with North Kildonan Players) and modeling were adventures for him. While Bobby was a fun kind of guy he was actually very spiritual and sensitive to others needs. He loved classical music, jazz, enjoyed art and wrote poetry. Bobby supported Arlene in her work, projects and volunteer activities. He was proud of her involvement with the Council of Women of Winnipeg, and the Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba. Together they travelled extensively across Canada and the USA, Australia, China, Turkey, England, Scotland, France, Spain, Germany, Hawaii, Mexico and Cuba. A special thank you to our family, friends and neighbours especially Leanne Landriault (for the many suppers) and Curtis Palidwor, Joann MacMorran, Eva Marie Lessing, Mary Gigliotti, the wonderful home care workers who helped make Bobby's last few months more comfortable, the staff on E6 at St. Boniface Hospital for their care and patience (especially when he wanted to use the phone), the Paramedics, the Khartum Shrine Pipes and Drum Corps and the St. John's Cathedral. Arlene and the family very much appreciate Pastor Dr. George Takashima for coming from Lethbridge to lead the celebration of Bob's life. A celebration of Bobby's life will be held at the St. John's Cathedral, 135 Anderson Ave. on Saturday, March 21, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to The Compassionate Friends TCF/Winnipeg Inc., 685 William Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0Z2, The Merchant's Corner Project c/o North End Community Renewal Corporation (NECRC), 509 Selkirk Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2W 2M6, or a charity of your choice. Bob's granddaughter Kendra said: "Bob had a long and fulfilling life, but it is nonetheless very difficult for everyone to cope in a world without his smile." NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 18, 2015

Condolences & Memories (26 entries)

  • Mr. Jones was a councilor at Knowles School for Boys when I was there. I have some great memories of Mr. Jones: - He was a Semi Professional Wrestler - He took us to some of his matches - He used to train other Wrestlers at the school - We won a Hockey Championship with Mr. Jones - Saw him and his wife at the 100 year reunion for Knowles School. Both of us brought our Hockey Championship Trophy's. - He was an great man and made a big difference in my life! - Posted by: John McBryan (Student at Knowles School for Boys 1959-1963) on: Feb 24, 2020

  • Warm wishes to Arlene & Family in the World's Great Loss.. how many stories of Bob?.. Arlene, in the '80s when you would call me in the morning at 2799, "Is Bob there yet?" "No Arlene, not yet".. "Well, when he gets to work and is wondering where his briefcase is... can you tell him it's here at home, sitting on the top of the back FENCE again!!" And only Jonesy could get away with posing in a formal wedding photo beside Corey, kneeling in his shoes!!, as DORF!! Rest easy Jonesy, it was an honour to have known you, Don't know if heaven is ready for you!! Shake them up! - Posted by: Angie & Rick Thain (Friends & Co-workers) on: Mar 23, 2015

  • I'm very sorry to hear of your dad's passing, he was a very warm and caring man. - Posted by: Tracey Lund (long time friend) on: Mar 22, 2015

  • Bob always remembered me and called me Mrs. Bedwin from our time doing "Oliver" together! He was always so sweet and we had so much fun doing that show. He was such a joy to be around and everyone loved his smile and presence. My condolences to Arlene, Richard and the rest of his wonderful family. Bob will be missed! - Posted by: Felicia Buhler (Friend) on: Mar 21, 2015

  • Our condolences to Arlene, Rick, Maryanne & family. We will never forget the bright smile that Bob brought in our family, the time spent together, The Boxing Day spent at your house. Thanks Bob for training me as a Pro Wrestler back in the 70's, Thank you for chosing me to be your tag team partner, together we became tag team champions in Manitoba. Very proud to have you as my friend. Rest in peace Bobby, Puppy Dog Peloquin Eva - Posted by: Fred & Eva Peloquin (friends) on: Mar 20, 2015

  • Have many fond and fun memories of Bob as we both started out at the same time as Recreation Co-ordinators with the City of Winnipeg. He was at Riverview C.C. and I was at Northwood C.C. Bob was always upbeat and fun to be around. He had an enormous effect on hundreds of young men and women, especially because of his skill at teaching wrestling. I can recall when he started to work with Senior Citizens they all loved him. Turns out more than half the seniors he worked with knew him because they had attended his pro wrestling matches. He was working with his fans. Our sympathy to Arlene and Family. He will be missed. John and Marge Mirus. - Posted by: John Mirus (Friend) on: Mar 20, 2015

  • Sincere condolences to the Jones' family on the loss of your beloved Bobby. I remember Bobby Jones from the days of the Madison Boxing and Wrestling Club and the Paris Theater on Provencher Ave. where us kids use to enjoy our favorite wrestler named, Bobby Jones. Rest in peace Mr. Jones and thank you for the many wrestling matches you participated in. - Posted by: Paul Dufault (Friend) on: Mar 20, 2015

  • Bob was my wrestling coach and was always friendly and supportive to me. Helped me get my first job. One of the good guys. Dick Forbes - Posted by: Dick Forbes () on: Mar 20, 2015

  • I will never think Bob without thinking Arlene, and I will never think Arlene without thinking Bob. A unique couple, so many talents willingly shared, and role models for so many. Duke and Duchess of Bannerman Ave, King and Queen of hospitality. They epitomize all that is good about Winnipeg, home city to both of us. For so many of us who moved away many years ago Arlene and Bob and 99 Bannerman are the anchor to our past. We will miss you Bob, thanks for the memories. Bob and Marilese MacDonell - Posted by: Bob and Marilese MacDonell () on: Mar 19, 2015

  • I first met Bob at meetings of the Manitoba Sports Federation in connection with his sport of Wrestling. He and his colleague Jim Trifunov were great ambassadors on behalf the sport. Always positive, always upbeat, always friendly ... that was Bob! I learned of his other community contributions from others and realized this man was a model of what all communities need ... inspired leaders. He indeed was a great citizen who never failed to think of what he could do to make a community better. Rest in peace ... good and faithful servant. Condolences to Arlene and family. - Posted by: George Fraser (Friend) on: Mar 19, 2015

  • So sorry to hear of Bob's passing...he was a fun guy and I am sorry I haven't been in touch with him for a while now. My condolences to Arlene, Barry, Ricky and family. - Posted by: Sharon Chittick (Watkins) (Cousin) on: Mar 19, 2015

  • I was honored to be considered part of the family. Both Bob and Arlene truly have a unique gift of making people feel like they belong and are part of the family. Bob and I had fun joking that I was his last tag team partner as we wrestled around in our private office where our picture resides on the door still. If I made his last few months easier, he definitely put a smile on my face and made me look at life in better ways. It was truly a joy to have spent the time I did with him. I will see you in the ring again my friend. - Posted by: Brian Lange (friend and last tag team partner ) on: Mar 19, 2015

  • Very sorry to hear of Bob's passing. I know how much his family meant to him and him to all of you. You are all lucky to have shared and continue to share the love, admiration and support of family. Celebrate and remember happy times. That's what will carry you through. - Posted by: Shelley pfeffer (family friend) on: Mar 19, 2015

  • Arlene....Our deepest sympathies and prayers are with you. Bob will be greatly missed, the two of you were like my parents away from home. I will surely tell Gator to visit him and keep him company. A thoughtful caring gentle giant and he is someone I will always look up to. He will be remembered always. John and Stefanie Keller. - Posted by: John & Stefanie Keller (Friends neighbors ) on: Mar 19, 2015

  • Dear Arlene and family, Bob and you have been part of our lives since the mid '80s and in those years the adventures and experiences you have led us on were always a delight. Bob's hearty laughter, hugs and big smile on every greeting were something you just came to expect so to know that light will no longer be in our lives is sad. I don't think I ever heard him complain about anything, even once. He is definitely looking down on us and maybe that's why the sun keeps peeking out as I write this today. We love you both and will miss him but will be glad to share stories and reminisce whenever we see each other, which I hope is often. Monique, Reg and Morgan and family. - Posted by: Monique Graboski (Friend) on: Mar 19, 2015

  • I am sending my prayers to you Arlene and your family. I have had the honor to meet Bob through our meetings at the North End Community Renewal Corporation Board Meetings and he was such a special a man from the moment I spoke with him. He shared his stories that were full of history. He was a very passionate man for the people in our community. In the short time I have known Bob he was always filled with love to share, compassion for our community and full of humour...oh yes so very funny! I will miss seeing him but knowing he is in safe hands with our Creator walking by his side. May our Creator gently walk with you too Arlene and your family during your difficult time of loss and grief. In love, friendship and peace - Haven - Posted by: Haven Stumpf (Community Friend) on: Mar 19, 2015

  • Bob was a wonderful person. We appreciated his support of Arlene who was on the board of North End Community Renewal Corporation. It was always great to meet and speak with Bob in our North End Community. On behalf of the Board and Staff of NECRC, our condolences go out to Arlene and all of Bob's family. RIP Bob Jones - Posted by: Robert Neufeld (Friend) on: Mar 19, 2015

  • We will miss Bob's smile and stories! Hugs to Arlene, Rick, Maryanne, Kendra (John), Rebekah and, of course, Sarah! We were so happy to have Bob (and the rest of the Jones Clan) as part of the North Kildonan Community Players Family (Bob was wonderful as Mr. Brownlow in "Oliver", one of four generations of the Jones family involved in that production). Love Laurie and Cathie - Posted by: Laurie and Cathie Fischer (Friends) on: Mar 19, 2015

  • It was a priviledge for our family to be considered part of Arlene and Bob's extended family and to have been able to spend some special times with them. Those who knew Bobby were keenly aware of his love of kids. Our three will never forget the first time they met Bobby when he scooped them and the dog up to take them out for an adventure. When they returned a couple of hours later they were full of laughter and smiles as Bobby had taken them out to buy them all ice cream cones, including one for the dog, and then drove to the cemetery to take advantage of the sun and the grass to eat the cones and regale them with some of his many stories. Arlene, our thoughts are with you and we all share in your loss. Ian, Sandy, David, Jennifer and Andrew. - Posted by: Ian & Sandy MacDonell & family (Special) on: Mar 19, 2015

  • Arlene, I was very sad to read about the passing of your husband Bob. I met Bob on a number of occasions after our meetings ended. My thoughts are with you at this time. - Posted by: Tracy Simcoe (Colleague with MARRT) on: Mar 18, 2015

  • So sorry to hear of Bob's passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Barbara Gessner and family - Posted by: Barbara Gessner (cousin) on: Mar 18, 2015

  • Memories are still cherished of Bobby and Arlene as newly-weds and other times shared with family in Thunder Bay and Winnipeg. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. - Posted by: Mrs. Edna Skrabek and Mrs. Linda Wood (Late cousin John's wife and daughter) on: Mar 18, 2015

  • We will always remember the smiles on Bobby and Arlene's faces when they visited the restaurant and will miss the stories Bobby had to share with us. Rest in Peace. Our thoughts are with the family. - Posted by: Vince, Joan and Peter Magro (Paradise Restaurant) on: Mar 18, 2015

  • My deepest sympathies to you and your family Arlene. Carol - Posted by: Carol Heppenstall (Friend) on: Mar 18, 2015

  • Our sympathies to you and your family. Thinking of you. - Posted by: June and Bill Hanchakove (friend of Rick) on: Mar 18, 2015

  • So sorry for your loss, Arlene. - Posted by: Harold and Mary Tinling (Long time friend) on: Mar 18, 2015

Neil Bardal Inc. (Winnipeg)

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