Originally from South Wales, Jones began his career at the Royal Army Educational Corps, where he was Captain, then promoted to Major, from 1973-1991.
Jones was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer. Although he recovered, this ended his army career and he joined Sakurai UK in 1991 where he was managing director until 2000. During his career with Sakurai, Jones introduced the first multi-colour OLIVER press to the UK market.
Jones then set up Busch in 1996 and was managing director from 2000-2009. The cancer returned 18 months ago but Jones worked until the beginning of 2012 and supported Busch with consultancy until three weeks before his death at the end of April.
Sakurai colleague Bob Cawte said: "Ian was an inspiration to us all. He had true integrity and was an absolute gentleman in business. It was a real pleasure to work with him and for him.
"Ian pioneered the idea of having factory-trained subcontractors throughout the UK to maintain a strong service department.
"He will be remembered for his integrity, leadership and passion for the industry and also his influence on the personal growth of his staff and colleagues.
"Ian was a mentor to many younger people in the industry who will remember his shy smile, engaging manner and caring attitude. He was committed to passing on his knowledge and expertise."
Jones had no formal funeral as he donated his body to medical science for others to benefit from future research. Cawte commented: "That was Ian – always thinking of others."
