Dan was a big force of energy, smarts, clever humor, and problem solving wherever he went. With a great capacity for learning, he was a self-taught drummer and guitarist and composed music as well as comedy. He was a wood-worker. He was a talented and insightful database architect and software designer. Dan was an entrepreneur and graduate of Stanford University (1994) where he researched psychology.
Dan lived his life in exclamation points. He set high standards for himself based on models of excellence and good. He liked order but could be impulsive and irreverent as he relished fun and laughter. He was expressive, articulate, passionate and tremendously skilled as a writer, working hard to "get it right." Dan was a big, glowing, smiley "no B.S. guy" who was willing to go to the mat for his convictions. He was also playful and often had a mischievous or teasing twinkle in his eye. Even as he would operate without much filter, Dan was tender-hearted and listened to others with care and compassion.
After a childhood in Indianapolis, Pittsford, NY, New Canaan, CT and Ladue, MO, Dan spent most of his life in California. However, he loved being with family in Maine. Regular trips there helped connect Dan and his kids to Lake Hours filled with jokey banter, late night cards, philosophical conversation, swimming, croquet and The Game. What he may have enjoyed most was floating peacefully on inflatables.
Even as he might be remembered for teasing, sarcasm and occasional pranks, there is no question that Dan took fatherhood very seriously. Dan had good role models to follow and provided a cheery bright home. He lotioned his kids up for sun, and made certain life jackets were in use. He enjoyed reading to and bathing his kids. He was a respectful co-parent to Nadia on whom he counted for her ability to nurture strength and self-confidence. He wrote: "Meaning is: It is my DUTY to be the best daddy that I can be. For my wonderful, angel children."
Of his children Paco and Mila, Dan wrote, "I love those kids with all my heart. Absolutely wonderful little human beings. Wonderful hearts. Nadia is raising them to be strong." Dan paid the bills, did the taxes but then turned out to PLAY! Whether splashing and swimming, hauling and blowing up pool toys or spreading his long legs out on the floor with Fisher Price sets, Dan was super playful. He got princess dresses for Mila. He dressed up as superheroes with Paco for Halloween. He was "Fun Dad" and wanted nothing more than that his chldren live happy lives.
Dan was the father of two young children, Mateo "Paco" Rojas Jones and Milena "Mila" Rojas Jones. Dan is survived by them and their mother Dr. Nadia Rojas Jones. Dan has many other survivors who will also miss him dearly. These include his mother Joan Ronalds Jones and his father Wilmot Rufus Jones, III, as well as Rufus's wife Martha Ehrlich, Dan's paternal aunt Lee Hargadon and his maternal uncle Hugh Ronalds. Dan grew up as the youngest in a big, lively, affectionate and playfully competitive family of seven siblings. He had three sisters, Jennifer Jones, Elizabeth Jones and Margaret Jones Carpenter as well as three brothers, Peter Jones, Stephen Jones and Kenneth Jones. His first wife Arisa Fukushima of Japan gave him valued support when he was a young man with a lot to tackle in life. Dan had scores of nieces and nephews, in-laws, cousins, bonus family and good friends who will miss him.
Dan adored his children, Nadia, and his cats, and he was supported with great love through both good times and struggles. He is remembered for his exuberance and his kindness, but especially for how deeply he was committed to his children's joy, strength and well being.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.8.18