Richard Jones, age 71, passed away on the morning of July 15, 2012 at the Life Care Center in Reno, Nevada. Dick had struggled with prostate cancer for 8 years before losing the battle. With him in his final moments was his long time close friend, Dave, who shared a final taste of "Makers Mark" and soda, one of Dick's longtime favorites to complete his life journey.
Richard was the oldest of 4 boys born to Howard and Jean Jones on September 17, 1940 in Riverside, California. He is survived by brothers Ron and Steve, their wives and several nices and nephews. Richard spent his early years growing up around the orange groves of southern California before moving to Pittsburg, California during his high school years. Dick was a talented left handed pitcher, playing baseball in his early days before concentrating on track and field in high school. He held the school record for the 100 yard dash for several years at Pacifica High School in West Pittsburg.
He received his Bachelors degree in geology from Fresno State and worked for New Idria mercury mine in the coast range of California where he was involved in mine safety and rescue. Richard moved to Reno, Nevada in the 1960's to pursue a Master of Science degree and the University of Nevada at Reno. He earned his degree and always considered Reno his home to which he returned to live an connect with lifelong friends.
Dick was happiest in the outdoors and worked as a mining geologist in southeast Alaska for several years leading field camps for ARCO. Returning to Reno he worked in the private mining industry sector conducting field work that covered the greater part of Nevada. There are not amny mountain ranges he did not explore. He finished his professional career at the University of Nevada at Reno as a liaison between the state and the mining industry retiring after 16 years.
Dick developed a passion early in life for the outdoors and hunting, influenced by his dad, Howard and his Uncle Jess Ray, who included Dick in several hunting and fishing trips. These early experiences were the basis for his second career as a hunter, guide, and firearms expert for Mark, Fore and Strike, a renowned sporting goods store in Reno. One particular job he was always proud of was selling Electrolux vacuum cleaners with his good friend, Dave Churchey.
Dick collected fine firearms during his life and was an avid history buff with an extensive library to support his passions. He purchased his hom in Carson City in 2009 to spread out and enjoy his books, maps and reloading hobbies. He quickly became involved in the neighborhood and enjoyed the camaraderie of the local block parties. Unfortunately, due to his failing health, he was only able to enjoy his new life for a short while.
Richard was a rare gem in today's world, a simple yet complex man who made strong lifelong friendships, had few enemies and lived his life according to his own convictions. For the most part he viewed matters in black and white with very few gray areas to complicate things. He related to people as individuals based on their actions not the color of their skin or nationality. Those he could help he would, those he couldn't would go their own way with a grim look and even grimmer attitude.
A person whose word was his bond, his hand shake a guarantee, and a hunting conversationist that understood our natural resources are part of an ever changing process in which hunters are an integral part.
His final resting place will be as he requested.....
WAY HIGH UP...
WAY FAR BACK...
WILD AND WOOLY!!!!!!
There will be a remembrance of Dick on Sunday, August 5, 2012 at his home (DICKYLAND), 212 Winters Drive, Carson City, NV 89703. 1pm-4pm with a short service at 2pm. Refreshments provided. If possible RSVP or condolences to sdjones47@q.com or churchda5@cs.com or ronjones97223@yahoo.com or Dave Churchey @ 775-720-2739
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