Kenneth M. Jones, 76, of Soledad, passed away at home, surrounded by family, Wednesday, July 9, 2014.

Ken was born February 14, 1938 in Salinas and had been a lifelong resident of Soledad. He graduated from Gonzales High School, class of 1956 and attended classes at Hartnell College in Salinas. He was a painting contractor for the family business, Jones & Jones, having worked for over 40 years. He was a Soledad volunteer firefighter for over 17 years, a US Army veteran, a Lions Club member, and coached Soledad Little League Baseball. Ken was a member of the Salinas Valley Rock & Gem Club, a "Grade A" rock hunter, cutter, and jewelry maker. Ken enjoyed vacationing, hunting, fishing, bowling, gardening, barbeques, and watching the San Francisco 49ers. He made great homemade jams and liked playing cards and watching John Wayne movies. He had a huge heart for all his friends, enjoyed company from his pet companion dogs, and loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Karen Farias; children, Marc (Natalia), Kent (Michelle), Greg (Christina), & Leah (Joe); Grandchildren, Victoria (Kyle), Joey, Kira, Kami, Josh (Kayla), Parker & Coury; great grandson, Milo; mother, Doris; Brother, Art (Jan); Sister, Carolyn Taggart; Niece, Alyson; Nephews, Martin & Jeffery; Brother in law, Vernon Farias of N.C. and Tom Farias (Penny) of CO; Sister in law, Wendy Rigney of NV; Neices and Nephews, Vicki Farias Robinson (Dennis) Megan, Michael, David of S.C; Ken Farias (Robin of TX, Daugther, Kathy of CA), Chantel Welch (Gene) of Co, Ashlyn & Lathan, Joy Manford (Daniel), Laura Lecave (Mark) Jeffrey, Brennon, Deven, Logan of TN, and many cousins.

 Ken was preceded in death by his father, Lewis; niece, Krystal Jones; nephew, Tim Taggart, brothers-in-law, Jim Taggart, Allen Patrick Farias; Sister-in-law, Belva Farias; Mother & Father-in-laws, Flora & Joe Farias