OXFORD – Barton E. Jones, 63, passed away Dec. 13, 2008 at the New York State Veterans’ Home in Oxford, following a short illness.
Born in Syracuse May 5, 1945, Barton was the son of Alden M. and Marie E. (Bennett) Jones.  He attended various suburban schools in the Syracuse area, graduating from West Genesee High School in 1963, where he was active in extra-curricular activities including manager of several sports and playing french horn in the band and orchestra.  He also acted in several spring dramas and was a member of the Key Club.  After graduation Barton attended Lycoming College for one year, then enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1965.  He trained at Great Lakes, Memphis and Pensacola, serving the balance of his enlistment in radio mechanics at the Naval Air Station in Albany, Ga.  He received an honorable discharge in 1969, and began his employment with New York Telephone Company in Syracuse as a Central Office Technician.  He was enrolled in numerous in-service training courses during the next 32 years, and retired from Verizon in 2002. He was a member of the CWA Union.
In retirement Barton continued his interest in sports as a member of the Camillus Sportsman’s Club and engaged in competitive target shooting with both pistol and rifle.  He was also interested in auto racing as an active volunteer at races at Watkins Glen and the International Motor Racing Research Center.  Barton was also a photographer at weddings, social events and various auto races.  For a time he was a member of the Kiwanis Club.
Barton is survived by his father, Alden M. Jones of Norwich, an aunt Eileen Lye of Raleigh, N.C., his brother-in-law David Funk of Westerlo, nephews Daniel and Nathan Funk of Norwich and their wives, and nieces Bonnie Peck of Gloversville and Jennifer Ryan of Oxford and their husbands. Also surviving are several cousins, six grand nieces and a grand nephew, and extended family in Smyrna and elsewhere. He was predeceased by his mother and a sister, Carolyn Funk.
At Barton’s request, there will be no services at this time. Interment will be at a later date in the family plot in Stafford.
Contributions in Barton’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Wilson Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to Barton’s family by visiting the funeral home website at http://wilsonfh.com.