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James Stephen "Steve" Jones passed away at home on Sunday, February 6, 2011. At the age of 87, Steve went peacefully in the home he built for his family in 1968. Born on February 12, 1923 in Sentinel, OK, he was preceded in death by his parents, Blaine and Iva Jones; sister, Dorothy Berrong; and grandson, Morgan Hutchins. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Evelyn Allender Jones; daughter, Kay Jones Hutchins of Colorado Springs, CO, son, Ray Jones, of Oviedo, FL, grandson, Taylor Hutchins of Colorado Springs; grandsons, Brian Jones and Kevin Jones of Oviedo; granddaughter, Katie Jones of Oviedo; and great-grandson, Tanner Jones also of Oviedo; nephews, Blaine Jones of Pryor, OK and David Berrong of Clinton, OK; and niece, Nancy Wilbanks of Graham, TX. Steve was a WWII veteran serving in the Army Air Corps at Clark Air Force Base in Manilla. He is a graduate of Oklahoma State University with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering. It was during his military duty that Steve developed a strong passion for flying and later became a civilian owner of small passenger planes that were recreation for him and family "transportation" for weekend excursions. His interest in aviation history led him to a twenty-year project of love -- completely restoring an antique aircraft, the Stearman PT17. It was more than a museum piece; Steve logged many happy hours in the air with his bi-plane. Steve loved motorcycles, as well, and owned, rode and refurbished a couple of Harleys (the only "real" motorcycle to him) over the years. Steve was also a successful businessman. He owned and operated resort property in northern New Mexico for almost a decade, and at the same time established a respected appliance repair company called Steve's Repair Service which was in business for over 25 years. Steve loved repairing and tinkering with almost any kind of equipment or machine. If he couldn't fix it, then no one could. His family is blessed with many fond memories of the husband, dad, grandfather, son and uncle we must now bid farewell. We will miss him dearly and always love him. Services will be held Saturday, February 12, 2011, 2:00 p.m., at the First United Methodist Church, 4th and Lead downtown. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made to the First United Methodist Church Repair Team, 314 Lead St. SW, 87102. Please visit our online guestbook for Steve at www.RememberTheirStory.com. FRENCH 1111 University Blvd. NE (505) 843-6333
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