Adrian L. Jones

Adrian L. Jones, 73, of Osceola, died Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines.

Adrian Loraine Jones was born June 12, 1950, to Merlyn and Geraldine Jones in Clarke County. Adrian grew up in Clarke County and attended Clarke Community Schools. Adrian joined the U.S. Army, Jan. 19, 1971. Adrian spent most of his younger years wild and carefree.

He loved to be around people and didn’t know a stranger. Wherever Adrian went, you knew when he walked in the door. His smile could light up a room and it was never a problem for him to announce he was there and it was time to party!

While we know the partying and fun stories of Ade’s life are endless, there is one specific story that set the stage for the rest of his life. In the summer of 81′, Ade had ventured to an outside dance at Knotty Pine, where coincidentally enough he met the love of his life. After multiple failed attempts of finding a dance partner during the night, he finally stumbled upon one lucky lady that said “yes.” Much to her surprise, he was an amazing dancer.

Lori Blazek fell in love with Adrian Jones that night and six months later they eloped to Las Vegas and got married at Circus Circus. They took every opportunity for as long as they were able, to dance - and man could they dance. Adrian and Lori were blessed with three daughters: Angel, Tia and Kasi. He was a one-of-a-kind father and always went above and beyond for his girls. From allowing 30-plus kids over for birthday parties, to running boys off with shotguns, (yes, there is more to the story, maybe ask one of the girls later if you want to know.) there really wasn’t anything Ade wouldn’t do for his daughters.

Over a 30-year span Adrian worked construction for Eco-Tech and his brother Bud Jones. He also spent some time as a gravedigger. Adrian was one of the hardest workers around but in his free time, family is what he focused on. Rock hunting and creek stomping were two of the things he enjoyed doing the most with his family. His love for these adventures were passed down to his daughters and grandkids, who will now remember Adrian as they continue these traditions.

Adrian’s grandchildren were what kept him going most days. He made every birthday, sporting event and special occasion he could, even when his health started to fail him. He made sure they knew how much grandpa loved them. Adrian’s love for the Kansas City Chiefs can’t be forgotten, he never missed a game, or his love for his dogs. The girls make jokes, sometimes he may have loved his dog more than his kids.

His heart was always happy and his laugh was contagious. He lived life hard and loved it even harder. There is a quote the family came across they thought very fitting for Ade: “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention to arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out and loudly proclaiming ‘Wow! What a ride!’” It’s pretty safe to say Adrian did just that.

Adrian’s family will greet friends from 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22 at Kale Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23 at Kale Funeral Home in Osceola, Adrian’s family will celebrate his life with a bonfire starting at 6 p.m. Saturday evening at Adrian’s home.

Memorial contributions may be directed his family for a fitting tribute to be decided at a later date. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.kalefuneralhome.com