Stephen Graf Jones

October 17, 1947 - April 25, 2018

Dr. Stephen G. Jones, 70, passed away Wednesday, April 25, 2018. He was born October 17, 1947 to the late James A. "Lone" and Freeda I. (Graf) Jones. Steve was united in marriage to Linda L. Patterson on May 30, 1992 and was so very proud of his son Peter.

Steve was an internationally renowned professional trumpet player. Professor of Music Emeritus at Western Michigan University, Steve taught for 42 years and served as a member of the Western Brass Quintet. Steve had a profound influence on the School of Music. As a teacher, he has left a legacy of excellence with his students finding professional success as university teachers and orchestral musicians. As a performer, he helped bring the Western Brass Quintet to international prominence. And his meticulous work as a member of numerous committees has helped shape important policy for the school.

Upon his retirement he stayed active professionally, performing with the West Michigan Brassworks and as a soloist, teaching students, arranging music, and practicing for at least two hours each day. He was a lifetime member and two-term past President of the International Trumpet Guild. He felt privileged to be able to perform with colleagues and friends throughout the world. Steve felt blessed to be able to do something his entire life that he loved. He was so very proud of his colleagues and his students and all their accomplishments.

He was a gregarious person, who enjoyed getting together with friends and family, telling stories and jokes (sometimes questionable ones), performing magic tricks, and sharing a meal or a brew. And he loved watching Peter grow into the man he is today. Steve is survived by his wife, Linda; son, Peter; brother, Tim; an aunt, uncle, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Steve was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Eric Lone Jones.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday, May 19, at 2 pm at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 504 South Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church or the Western Michigan University School of Music c/o WMU Foundation, 1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49008. Please visit Steve's personalized webpage at www.langelands.com

Stephen was a member of the marching band in 1968. He played trumpet in X-Row.