David John Jones, 83, passed away on April 9, 2026. Born on August 6, 1942, he grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

He attended Kalamazoo College, where he met his wife, Judy Jones, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage. After earning his BA, he went on to serve in the United States Navy, where his performance earned him an accelerated promotion to Lieutenant. Following his service, he received his MBA from the University of Southern California and built a long career in business and management. He held senior executive roles at companies including Crane Marketing, Farr Company, Toyota Motor Sales USA, and Hydril.

In 1985, he took over ownership of the El Tecolote Cafe in Camarillo, California, which he owned and operated for nearly 25 years. Four years later, he opened a second restaurant, the Cactus Cafe in Ojai, though El Tecolote remained his pride and greatest joy. He valued the regular customers who returned week after week and came to feel like family. Many brought owl figurines from their travels, and over time the collection became a cherished and distinctive part of El Tecolote, something that meant a great deal to him.

Outside of work, he loved being outdoors and was an active member of the Pt. Mugu Jeep Club. Some of his favorite times were spent on overnight off-road trips, including the Rubicon Trail. In retirement, he and Judy traveled across the country by motorhome, continuing his love of camping, sightseeing, and exploring.

In 2014, he and Judy moved to Southern Maryland to be closer to their children and grandchildren. He took great joy in time with his family, especially taking his grandchildren out to lunch, tie-dyeing t-shirts, teaching them to crab, and creating lasting memories with them. On his own, he was happiest kayaking on the lake behind his home, fishing, catching crabs, and attracting birds of every kind to his yard. He especially loved being near the water, and one of his favorite routines was going out to lunch with Judy along the waterfront.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Jones; his daughters, Kristin Jones and Erin Kundolf, and son-in-law Greg Kundolf; his two grandchildren; and his brother, Alan Jones. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles Jones and Evelyn (Hamm) Jones.

A private graveside service will be held at Chesapeake Highlands Memorial Gardens in Port Republic, Maryland, on April 16.