David Emery Jones—who made a successful inroad into the restaurant business as a chef—passed away May 7. He was 45.
Jones was born in Springfield, Ill., and came to Chicago in 1983 to become an industrial engineer major at Northwestern University. To make ends meet, he began to wait tables at various restaurants in Evanston.
Jones quickly became a successful restaurateur and began working with the likes of top Chicago chefs like Rick Tramanto, Gale Gand, Michael Kornick, Eric Aubriot and Carol Wallock. His association with restaurants like Trio, Red Light, Vivo, Marché, Aubriot and MK made him a respected name in the restaurant industry in Chicago. His last project was Snack with Greg Ingles, and he was very successful caterer. He and his partner lived in the northwest side of Chicago for the last 10 years, hosting dinner parties for his close friends and family.
Jones is survived by his father Mel Jones; his four siblings—Kevin, Keith, Bob and Debbie; and his partner of 10 years, Rafael.
Services have already taken place. Donations can be made in Jones’ name to Howard Brown Health Center, 4025 N. Sheridan, Chicago, Ill., 60613.