David D. “Dave” Jones

David D. “Dave” Jones, 75, of Madison, passed away on March 4, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on November 9, 1949, in Madison, Dave built a life defined by hard work, determination, and deep love for his family and community.

On November 4, 1972, Dave married the love of his life, Jill (Housholder) Jones, and together they shared 52 years of love, partnership, and adventure.

In 1977, with nothing but a vision and a strong work ethic, Dave founded Dave Jones Plumbing out of his garage in Mount Horeb. What began as a small operation with just Dave and Jill grew into a thriving business that now employs over 600 people across the plumbing, HVAC, fire protection, and electrical trades. His leadership, integrity, and commitment to quality shaped the company’s success, and in 2015, he proudly passed the business on to his children, ensuring that his legacy would continue for generations to come.

Beyond his own business, Dave was a dedicated advocate for his industry. He served as a leader in numerous associations, including the Associated Builders & Contractors of Wisconsin and the Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors of Wisconsin. His passion for the trades and his commitment to the next generation of skilled workers left a lasting impact on the industry he loved.

Dave served as a volunteer firefighter with the Mount Horeb Fire Department for nine years. Dave was also a proud member of the Barneveld Masonic Lodge, becoming a Mason in 1974. He embodied the Masonic values of integrity, service, and brotherhood, carrying those principles into both his personal and professional life. He later went on to become a Shriner.

Outside of work, Dave had a passion for the great outdoors. A dedicated hunter, he pursued elk, moose, deer, and bear — just to name a few. Some of his favorite moments were spent at the family deer camp in Viola, where the camaraderie of family and friends, the thrill of the hunt, and late nights playing euchre made for some of his most treasured memories. Whether in the woods or by the water with a fishing rod in hand, Dave found peace and fulfillment in nature.

A devoted family man, his happiest moments were spent with Jill, their three children, and his nine grandchildren. He was a storyteller, a mentor, and a friend to many, always ready with a joke, a helping hand, or a bit of wisdom earned through years of hard work. And when it was time to celebrate, which usually meant a shot of cinnamon whisky, Dave was always the first to raise a glass.

Dave’s impact extended far beyond his business — he was a pillar in his community, known for his generosity, his unwavering support of those around him, and the values he instilled in his family and colleagues. His legacy is best captured in the words: “The idea is not to live forever, but to create something that will.”

Dave is survived by his beloved wife, Jill (Housholder) Jones; his children, Holly Jones (Jason), Sarah Jacobson (Jeff), and Greg Jones (Traci); his grandchildren, Ellie (Victoria) Kellesvig, Sam Kellesvig, Jessy Jacobson, Sophie Jacobson, Jack Jones, Eve Kellesvig, Jenna Jones, Finley Jacobson, and Michael Jones; his siblings, Joseph (Debra) Jones, Chuck (Carol) Jones, Russell (Sharon) Jones, Toni (David) Turnquist, and Martha McConnell; and many extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Hazel Gladem; and his sister, Linda Hendrickson.

A memorial service will be held at Springdale Lutheran Church, 2752 Town Hall Road, Mount Horeb, at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 12, with Vicar Jim Ranney presiding. Visitation will be held at Gunderson Camacho Mount Horeb Funeral and Cremation Care from 4 until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11, and also at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dave’s memory to the Kidney Cancer Association (Dallas), the Shriners Children's Chicago or the Springdale Lutheran Church (Mount Horeb).

Though he is no longer with us, Dave’s influence will continue to be felt in the lives he touched, the business he built, and the family he cherished. His was a life well lived — full of love, laughter, and a legacy that will endure.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.