Lewmar’s ‘Mr Winch’, Tony Jones, has died while travelling in France.
Mr Jones began his career with Lewmar in 1979 as product manager of the sailboat winch product line and was heavily involved with the design and development of the company’s winches throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
Mr Jones was particularly involved with Lewmar’s OEM and racing winch product platforms working with the design team to develop the Ocean series of winches, an early form of the company’s current Evo winch range.
Instrumental
“Tony was instrumental in the conception and design of Lewmar’s highly successful Ocean winch range,” said Matt Johnston, Lewmar sales and marketing director. “During his time within the business, he was a great source of knowledge for many of our employees and will be sorely missed.”
Ian Stevenson, currently the Osculati North Europe representative, who sat opposite Mr Jones at Lewmar for many years, added: “Tony travelled the world talking ‘Lewmar Winch’ he was respected by boat builders and competitors for his vast knowledge and experience.
“He approached work with a great sense of humour and enthusiasm and he will be greatly missed.”
Mr Jones retired from Lewmar in 2007 to spend more time travelling with his wife Pauline and enjoy their French holiday home.