The College of Science and Mathematics regretfully announces the passing of Kenneth Jones on Oct. 23, from heart complications. Jones joined the staff at the College of Science and Mathematics in 1996. Jones completed his Bachelor of Science degree in geology at Fresno State in 1993.

Dr. Christopher Meyer, dean of the College of Science and Mathematics, spoke to Jones' daughter, Shannon Cornell, and she emphasized how proud her father was to work for Fresno State.

“I first met Ken during my interview and recall him taking me to a great hole in the wall restaurant for lunch and filling me in on all sorts of history about Fresno State,” Meyer said. “He was a wonderful storyteller with a great sense of humor.”

Jones was a natural leader and would work on any project at a moment’s notice — he was the College of Science and Mathematics “go to guy,” Meyer said. His assistance ranged from helping with equipment in the Jordan Agricultural Research Center, to delivering distilled water in an emergency, to specialty carpentry work in addition to his job maintaining the CSM vehicles and supporting the animal facility. In addition, Jones served as a union representative.

“Ken's jovial nature always came through when interacting with us in Earth and Environmental Sciences. He enjoyed geology, particularly being in the field. He was always supportive of our requests for field-related needs.” — Dr. Robert Dundas, chair of the Earth and Environmental Sciences Department

Jones is remembered as someone who truly cared and was always willing to lend a hand. He loved his family and loved sharing about the success of his children. Jones is survived by his son, Robert, and daughters, Michelle, Dana and Shannon Cornell.

“Ken was surely one of a kind! For so long I've always appreciated his openness to my quirky requests and last-minute changes to vehicle use. He was always willing to help solve problems/issues under his purview.” — Dr. Steve Blumenshine, Department of Biology

An interment for Jones will be held Friday, Nov. 13 at Clovis District Cemetery. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whitehurstsullivan.com for the Jones family.