Joseph Jones

Joseph “Joe” Michael Jones of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away on March 7, 2026. He was born on March 21, 1935, the son of George R. Jones and Martha Helen Michael Jones, and was raised in South Bend, Indiana and Niles, Michigan.

Joe graduated from Niles High School and then attended Clemson University, graduating in 1958 with a degree in electrical engineering. He built a career in the aerospace industry, first working on Bendix Corporation’s unmanned missile program and later designing hydraulic systems for General Dynamics’ F-16 fighter aircraft. His expertise took him around the world, including to Israel, Taiwan, Japan and other countries, where he trained allied partners on aircraft operations and maintenance.

Outside of his professional life, Joe was a model railroading enthusiast who took great joy in designing and operating detailed layouts, including a diorama he famously built inside a cigar box using a Z-scale train and goldenrod for trees.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents, Marion “Jessie May” Clark Michael and Leon Earl Michael; and several beloved aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his children: Elizabeth (Karen Todd) Jones, Marti (Alan) Rheault, Michael Jones, and Edward (Jessica) Jones; his grandchildren Ian (Jillian Pindar) Rheault, Justin (Lucy Beckner) Rheault, Casey Rheault, Ruby Jones, and Evelyn Jones; and his great-grandsons Bennett Rheault and Gino Rheault.

Joseph will be laid to rest at Highland Cemetery in South Bend, Indiana, alongside his parents and grandparents. Eternal rest grant unto thee.