Kenneth Lee Jones

Kenneth Lee Jones, born March 18, 1935, passed peacefully on October 24, 2024, at the age of 89. 

“A Beautiful Life” 

Ken was blessed to grow up in the post-war, middle-class suburb of Elmhurst, Illinois. His father, Norman, worked for Alcoa Aluminum as a machinist and later a salesman, while his mother, Mary, was a dedicated homemaker. Their home on Grace Avenue was a playground for Ken, where he indulged in activities like archery, golf, and motorbiking. In 1952, Ken graduated from York Township High School, excelling in both academics and athletics. He then attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio to play football, but instead he discovered his passion for physics and wrestling. 

Ken's academic journey continued at MIT, where he majored in mathematics and captained the MIT Rugby Club. His athletic prowess extended to various sports, including javelin, discus, and skiing. 

After graduating from MIT in 1957, Ken's career in the field of data communications was truly pioneering and marked by significant contributions. He worked on the SAGE Air Defense System at Lincoln Laboratory and MITRE Corporation while earning a master’s degree in applied mathematics from the University of Illinois in 1961. 

Ken's groundbreaking work didn't stop there. At CODEX, he was sent to NORAD mountain in Colorado, on a top-secret mission to monitor digital communication between three radar antennae overlooking the Soviet Union and computers at NORAD. At General Turtle in Cambridge MA, the brainchild of Seymour Papert, and head of MIT's Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Ken worked on a small robot running on a new language called Logo. Who knew? 

In 1963, Ken married his first wife, Eileen Ronayne. They had two sons, Stephen and Andrew, and resided in Boston. During the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. Ken's technical skills were in high demand by numerous start-ups and technology firms. Ken accepted a position as Assistant professor in the Engineering School at Boston University, and worked at several start-ups on projects that helped develop the computers we know today. 

In the late 80’s, Ken worked for Digital Equipment Corporation in Boxboro. He oversaw testing of FDDI (Fiberoptics Data Development Interface) and took early retirement in 1992. He later worked for Cisco Systems during the dot-com bubble on the development of router architecture and testing and retired in 2003. 

Ken was not only a brilliant engineer but also a dedicated athlete, never shying away from a challenge. His love for sports was infectious. He was known for his ever-present competitive spirit, whether he was throwing a javelin or racing motorcycles at Louden, NH with his sons, Andrew and Stephen, or coaching the first Boston Women’s Rugby Club founded in 1976. He played several times for the USA Rugby Team that took him around the world! Ken’s vibrant presence was felt in every room he entered, and his remarkable resilience made him an unstoppable force both in his professional and personal life. 

In his personal life, Ken was a loving and a devoted husband to his wife, Jennifer L. Jones. They met in 1986 and married on August 27,1988 on the front lawn of the home they purchased together in Fitchburg. Ken immersed himself in the community. He loved every nook and cranny. He became involved with Fitchburg Access Television, serving on the Board of Directors, lending his expertise on many fronts, and producing and hosting shows that highlighted the city's rich history and vibrant community. Working the camera televising the Friday night Fitchburg High School football games at Crocker Field was an absolute joy! Ken received the prestigious FATV Boulder Award in 2013. Finally, as a passionate animal lover, Ken volunteered regularly at the Fitchburg Animal Shelter, with a particular fondness for Pit Bulls. 

Ken's legacy is one of dedication, curiosity, and a love for life. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thank you to the staff at The Highlands and Beacon Hospice for their compassionate caring of Ken. 

Ken is survived by his wife, Jennifer L. Jones of 36 years; his sons Andrew Scott, and Stephen Roy Jones (Jacqueline – wife); his two granddaughters Nicole and Carolyn Jones; his stepdaughters Elissa M. and Aimee A. Mitchell; niece Jennifer L. Wilson (Greg – husband); sister-in-law, Yn Do Jones; and sister-in-law, Patricia Kokoska (Frank – husband). He is preceded in death by his first wife, Eileen Ronayne; his parents, Norman and Mary Jones; and his brother Norman Dewitt Jones Jr. 

In memory of Ken, we encourage everyone to leave memories and upload photos to the memorial page. A “Celebration of Life” will be held Saturday, November 16, 2024, 11:00 am at the First Parish UU Church of Fitchburg in the sanctuary. A reception will immediately follow the service with refreshments. 

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Ken’s memory to FATV would be greatly appreciated. Please send to: Fitchburg Access TV, c/o Nathan Glenny, P. O. Box F, Fitchburg, MA 01420 

Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg is directing arrangements, 

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor Directors.