Ronald G. Jones of Richmond Hill, an honourary lifetime member of Local 793, has passed away.

Ron died Monday, Sept. 29 at his home. He was 83.

Ron was a crane operator and longtime union member. He was initiated into the union on April 1, 1963 and was a 51-year member.

He received his 50-year award from Local 793 business manager Mike Gallagher during a long-service awards ceremony in the union banquet hall Nov. 16, 2013.

Ron became an honourary member of the union in 2004.

Business manager Gallagher said members will miss Ron for his wisdom and sense of humour, something he was generous with over the years.

Ron was a well-known and respected member of Local 793. He helped organize with the International on the east coast and in his home province of New Brunswick.

He came to Toronto in 1963 and settled in the Richmond Hill area, raising two sons and two daughters.

He worked many years for Superior Crane Rental and was a strong union activist.

Ron’s presence on various jobsites is well remembered through his operating expertise on many types of cranes, including the conventional Lima mobile that was part of Superior’s fleet.

His patience helped many operators develop the extra skills necessary to excel at the trade.

Eventually, Ron’s position at Superior Crane Rentals changed to a managerial one. He retired in May 1991.

Ron was a regular at the Labour Day Parade in Toronto. He was known for the Indiana Jones style hats which he wore to most union events.

Marshall Funeral Home, 10366 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill, is in charge of funeral arrangements. The funeral home is at the fourth traffic light north of Major Mackenzie.

Visitation is Friday, Oct. 3 from 4 to 6 p.m. A non-denominational service will be held at 6 p.m. and a reception will follow.

The family is asking that memorial donations be made to the Odette Cancer Centre at Sunnybrook Hospital.

Ron was predeceased by his wife Joan. He is survived by his children Ronalda, Errol, Alanna and Cleve.