Dennis Jones

dennis jones
Dennis Jones, a long-time Fremont resident who devoted a lifetime to public service, family and friends, has died. He was 66. Born in Sonora, CA, his family moved to Sunnyvale in the mid-1950s. He earned a Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Civil Engineering from San Jose State University and spent a career working in the Cities of Sunnyvale, Fremont and Newark, beginning in 1966 and retiring in 2010 as the Assistant City Manager of Newark. Dennis was well known for his wicked wit and willingness to stop whatever he was doing to help others when needed. He had a vast range of interests and worked hard to be the best at anything he did. The son of a master mechanic, he was the model DIYer – building home additions, rebuilding car engines, doing anything and everything around the house, and not just his house. He was an avid fly fisherman, taking annual out-of-state trips to find the right combination of peace…and fish. He loved golf and happily competed with his son for Best in House. Dennis would tell you his greatest achievement was his family. He was devoted to his wife Rosie (his 'partner-in-fun') whom he married in 1975, becoming a member of the 'Outlaws' – a loose affiliation of ne'er-do-wells not to be confused with the group more commonly known as in-laws. In 1980, he and Rosie welcomed son Matt, who Dennis would proudly tell you was Dr. Jones. As a group, they were travelers, tourists, historians, and adventurers – blazing a trail across the United States and around the world – completing a three-week Southeast Asia tour just months ago. In recent years, Dennis spent as much time with his grandkids as possible, finally settling into his well-earned retirement. In his spare time Dennis could be seen around town in his beloved red Mini Cooper or staying active in the Rotary Club. Dennis is survived by his wife Rosie of Fremont, son Matt and his family (Rachel, Aaron and Avery) of Phoenix AZ, and more family and friends that can be counted on an abacus. A Celebration of Life is being planned.

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  1. Dear Rosie, I am so heartbroken to hear of Dennis’ passing. He was a great mentor when I was in Newark and will remain my best boss ever. To this day, you two are my relationship/ marriage goals. Last night, Dennis’ spirit was in my dream. It was a light hearted moment, like those days we shared during our working days in Newark. My thoughts are with you, Matt and family.

  2. Our sincerest sympathies and prayers go out to you, Rosie, Matt and the Family. Memories of Dennis will always generate visions of his quick wit, combined with a broad grin. He has left a legacy of caring for his loving family and his community, as well as a zest for life. It would be well to honor him by carrying on his legacy.

  3. Rosie and Matt: I was so saddened to hear of Dennis’ passing. He was truly one of my favorite people when I worked at the City of Fremont. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you, Matt and the rest of your family.

  4. Rosie and Matt: I’m deeply sorry and my heart goes out to you and your entire family. Dennis was a truly special person. He was a real professional with a great sense of humor and I enjoyed the years I worked with him in Fremont. May your loving memories sustain you.

  5. Dear Rosie, I was so saddened to hear of your loss, I enjoyed the many years of working with both you and Dennis at City of Fremont. I also enjoyed when you and Dennis traveled as I had the fortune to stay at the “Palace Jones”. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers,

    Love, Janie O’Connor

  6. Rosie, I was shocked and incredibly saddened to hear of Dennis’ passing. Always a smile, always a laugh when around Dennis. He had so many creative ways around any problem that occurred. A good friend. A great co-worker. And you were always so gracious during those 3 a.m. phone calls and Dennis was always ready when he was needed. My mother, Joyce Jackson, wanted me to send her condolences as well.

  7. Dear Rosie, Matt and Family. My deepest condolences and prayers for you during this time. Dennis and you were some of the first people I met at Fremont and at Mission San Jose High; and I have fond memories of your kindness and wisdom. May you find peace in God in the days ahead.

  8. Rosie, Matt and family. I am shocked and grief stricken to hear of your loss of Dennis. I had never had a boss like Dennis. I was truly blessed to have had the short years I worked for him. He was a caring man with rapier sense of humor with an evil giggle that was contagious to anyone fortunate enough to be present. He made the world a better place to live. He loved you and family very much. You could see it in his eyes and hear it in his voice. He will be sorely missed.

  9. Rosie,I’ve just learned of the passing of Dennis and words fall short of expressing my sorrow for your loss. Wishing you peace to bring you comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to hold forever in your heart.


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