Jones to celebrate 85th

Wilbur O. Jones of Delphi will celebrate his 85th birthday Oct. 1 with a celebration hosted by his children at theWabash & Erie Canal Interpretive Center, 1030 N.Washington St.

Mr. Jones was born Oct. 1, 1922, to Floyd and Christina Jones. He married his high school sweetheart, Luella Mae Lowe, on Jan. 30, 1944, at her home in Sheridan. She preceded him in death in Feb. 2007.

He has six children, Pat, Dusty, Judy, Rick, Jack and Jeff. He also has 18 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Jones and his family came to Carroll County in 1954. He retired in 1983 after 39 years as a mechanic. He spent the last 20 years of that time as a John Deere mechanic at Jackson-Lee-Pearson Implement in Flora. As a retiree, he spends his time restoring antique tractors and has restored 26 to date.

He was a founder of the Carroll County Antique Tractor and Machinery Club. He was honored with an Old Settlers' Heritage Award in 2003. He also volunteered as a bridge builder for the canal center.

The family requested that friends and family join them at the celebration, but that gifts be omitted.