Walter Jones

October 18, 1924 – May 10, 2016

WWII RCAF Pilot Ferry Command

With dignity, Walter (Wally) passed away on May 10, 2016. He leaves to mourn his dear wife and loving friend Doreen after 70 years of marriage. Will be remembered and greatly missed by his children Glenn (Diann), Garry, Kathy (Rod Vanier), grandchildren Tammy (Gary Leavitt), Paul Lamirande, Kendra Jones, great-grandchildren Stephanie (Mackenzie), Jessica, Cory, and great-great grandchildren Chloe, Kiana and Odette.

Born in North Wales, Wally immigrated to Canada in 1926 and received his education in Alberta. On his 18th birthday in 1942 he enlisted in the RCAF, graduated as a Commissioned Officer Pilot and was posted to RAF Ferry Command based in Dorval, Quebec delivering fighters and bombers to Britain, Africa and India. Three months short of his 21st birthday, he had made 22 Atlantic crossings when WWII ended. He then volunteered for the Pacific conflict.

Wally was especially proud of his being selected to tell the story of Ferry Command in a one-hour CBC documentary that aired nationally on October 28, 2006 entitled “A Good Flight”.

He often spoke of and mourned the loss of the 590 flyers out of the 1100 air crew who flew in Ferry Command. He wrote many stories and the exploits surrounding his flying in Ferry Command and many were published. Wally also wrote about his study of life, his philosophy and also poetry.

Post war, Wally worked for the Post Office, farmed for seven years and then rejoined the Federal Public Service serving in the Farm Credit Corporation, Veterans Land Administration and Indian Affairs. In all, he had 27 years service.

Wally was good with numbers so at age 51 he and Doreen retired and bought a condo in Fort Lauderdale and spent 25 winters in the sun. Also during that time they did extensive world travel and enjoyed cruising so much they made 29 cruises in the Caribbean and Alaska.

Wally was not one to “stand on ceremony” so at his request there is to be no formal funeral. Information regarding future services will be announced in this newspaper. A memorial service/celebration of life will take place in Osgoode. His cremated remains will be buried in the Veterans Section of the Wetaskiwin Alberta Cemetery. After committal, those in attendance may wish to retire to a suitable watering hole, raise a glass and dialogue and commiserate on “That’s the way he was”. When the gig is over his Guardian Angel will gently take Wally home – a life fully lived – a good flight.

Those wishing to make a donation in his memory can be made to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute or a charity of your choice.