Charles E. “Gene” Jones, 84, of West Lafayette passed away on Sunday, April 23 after a brief illness. He was born on February 16, 1939, to Charles C. and Thelma L. (Eutsler) Jones in Anderson, IN. He was married on October 18, 1958, to his wife, Irene R. (Bruce) Jones, who survives him.

Gene was a 1956 graduate of Anderson High School. He worked at Cooper’s Sport Bowl and Universal Electric in Anderson before moving to Lafayette where he was a dedicated employee at Kirby Risk from 1985 until retirement. He enjoyed the customers he met and the people he worked with.

He was a member of the Elks and the West Lafayette Golf and Country Club and enjoyed many great years of golfing with his friends. He was an avid Purdue Sports fan and was known for his commitment to tailgating at every home Purdue Football game, rain or shine. He and his wife participated in many craft shows over the years and he was known for his delicious cheesecake.

He is survived by one daughter, Bonita (John) Warrum; two grandchildren, Brad and Natalie Warrum; and two siblings, Robert “Bobby” Hamilton and Karen Jones.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother David “Bud” Jones.  He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Family was very important to Gene. He was very proud of his grandchildren and talked about them to everyone he met.  He and his wife enjoyed many birthday parties, Christmas days and family vacations.

Visitation will be from 3 PM to 6 PM on Sunday, April 30 at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel

A funeral service will be held at 10 AM on Monday, May 1, at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel 400 Twyckenham Blvd, Lafayette, IN 47909), with Pastor Steve Allen officiating. A short graveside service will follow at Saunders Cemetery in Daleville, IN, at 2 PM.  Leave your condolences at www.soller-baker.com.