Dean Richard Jones

Dean Richard Jones died on October 2, 2026, surrounded by his family. Dean was born March 8, 1943, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was the son of Harold and LaVonne Jones, of Park Rapids, MN. He completed his education at Park Rapids High School and pursued further studies at the University of Minnesota and St. Cloud State. Dean's intellectual curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit guided him throughout his life. In 1963, Dean married the love of his life, Carla Dahl, in Park Rapids. Together, they shared 62 years of marriage. Dean was a devoted father to Michael Jones of Olympia, WA, and Laura Kauffmann (Matt) of Minneapolis, MN. His granddaughter, Audrey Kauffmann, was a source of immense joy, and he treasured the special times they shared. Dean and Carla were well-known in the Olympia community for their entrepreneurial ventures. They have owned Encore Chocolates and Teas in downtown Olympia for 15 years, after having successfully run Four Seasons Books at the Carnegie Library Building for 14 years. Dean's innovative and adventurous spirit led him to always be driven by a passion for creativity and excellence. Dean was an active member of the Olympia Downtown Alliance. In 2018 he served as an Alliance board member and chair of the Downtown Vibrancy committee as well as transitioning to Presidency of the Alliance. His dedication to the community was recognized when Encore Chocolates and Teas was awarded Business of the Year in 2020, and he was honored as the Downtown Person of the Year in 2023. Aside from his professional pursuits, Dean loved exploring new business ideas and traveling to Minnesota to spend time with his granddaughter. Known for his culinary skills, Dean never needed a recipe to create delicious dishes that were family favorites, much to the chagrin of his sister, Sandy James, whom he consistently outdid in culinary contests. Dean is predeceased by his son, Craig Jones, nephew, Nathan Anderson, parents, and grandparents. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Carla, his loving children, Michael, Laura, son-in-law, Matt, granddaughter Audrey, and his sister Sandy of Park Rapids, MN. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup for their exceptional care of Dean during his final days. Dean's legacy of love, resilience, and creativity will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.