Judge Fred Jones

Re “Judge Jones Dies After Marrow Transplant, “Feb. 11

I had the privilege of trying both civil and criminal cases in front of Judge Fred Jones. His integrity and work ethic should be a standard for all trial judges.

He knew the law, and when he didn’t, he learned it. Attorney’s quickly learned better than to show up unprepared in his court. As a trial judge he was, so fair to both sides that I never heard him criticized. He will be missed as a judge.

For him as a person, I have a special feeling. I too am fighting for my life against cancer. If I can maintain my fight with as much grit and dignity as did Fred Jones, I will be a winner no matter the outcome.

When I meet Fred again in a better place, I guess I won’t have to address him any more as “your honor.” But I will. . .You see, he earned it.

DOUGLAS A. DEMARET

Simi Valley