Michael Jones, 72, Massena

MASSENA -- In loving memory of Michael Robert Jones

Michael Jones, 72, a resident of Massena, NY, passed away at home, on Friday, October 23, 2026, with his loving family by his side.

He was born August 23, 1954. Michael was a locally born and raised son of the North Country. Michael enjoyed his childhood with his brother, Jeff Jones, and his sister, Julie Jones, and his parents Robert and Patricia (Ann) Jones. Memories of being spoiled by his grandparents Estella and Aubrey Harmon along with his Aunt Joan remained deep in his heart. Participating in raising sled dogs with his father, the dance classes his mother taught and his piano lessons, and a short stint as an alter boy who may have snuck a bit of wine.

Michael pursued higher education at Clarkson University after graduating from Canton High School, where he earned a degree in Engineering.

Michael went on to establish his own business, Startech Computers, serving members of the public as well as local businesses and major corporations. Notably being the first company to provide personal computers to Clarkson University, and simple things like having dinner with Steve Jobs.

Through his technical knowledge, experience, and dedication, he built a career that allowed him to work independently and serve customers who became like family. Startech was a staple of Massena for over 45 years.

Michael was the proud owner of WNTS Television along with having a hand in the startup of many small businesses. Nothing excited him more than a new project!

Outside of work, Michael had a strong love of music, especially 80’s and 90’s rock. Music was more than just something he enjoyed, it was part of who he was.

Michael performed in many bands since he was a teenager but was a local rock legend with his unforgettable vocals and keyboard abilities that left no doubt he was the star of the show in a band called “Tweeter and the Monkey Man,” that terrorized St. Lawrence County and beyond in the best possible way since the early 90’s.

Tweeter had an unmatched following that included hundreds of fans that Michael lovingly referred to as “groupies” who would follow them from town to town. Early on in his music career a fan trying to get Mike’s attention shouted, “Hey, Starman”, a nickname that not only fit but would follow him the rest of his life. Mike loved you all!

Michael also enjoyed camping, at Barnhart and Coles. Spending every summer he could with his family and friends, creating camping and some horror stories that his loved ones could recall with affection and humor.

He was the father of eight children, Michael Jones (Whitney Rampe), Matthew Jones and his wife Alicia, whom he shared with their mother, Mary Chris Jones. Alexandra Jones and Christopher Jones, whom he shared with their mother, Sheila Kingston. Cayden, Jacob, Nicholas and Miranda Jones, whom he shared with their mother, Tracy Debien. Michael’s family remained an important part of his story; the accomplishments and lives of his children were his greatest source of pride.

Mike was predeceased by his father, Robert, his son, Cayden, and his brother, Jeff.

In Michael’s later days, he spent much of his time watching television which included Star Trek, Gun Smoke, and any form of an alien or criminal documentary, Michael was always excited for a movie night with his family.

Holidays were occasions and the excuse for bigger and better; there was no limit on lights, food or celebrating with the ones he loved.

Michael’s life was a story of learning, building a career, sharing music, enjoying the outside, raising a family, and forming friendships with everyone he met. He lived many lifetimes in his 72 years, and we are forever grateful to have been part of it.

In the end Mike was able to spend his last month at home with his children Jacob, Nicholas and Miranda by his side. Through the loving care and comfort of his children with help from their mother and Hospice, Mike left this world as we all should, at home with our loved ones. Special friends and family including Christine Gollinger, Blind Andy Cox, Shawn Haley, Joanne Havington and many more thank you so much for the support you showed.

Our family is forever grateful. May those who loved him find comfort in their memories, strength and peace in knowing that in a Galaxy far, far away – Starman lives on.

Please Join us for a Celebration of Life on Friday, October 30th at the Moose Lodge in Massena beginning at 4pm.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Donaldson Funeral Home, where friends and family are encouraged to share memories and condolences online at www.donaldsonfh.com.