Stephen Roy Jones, 68, of Prior Lake, passed away peacefully on June 6, surrounded by his loving wife, Pam, and close family friends Kelly and Joe Berthiaume, and Molly Cheney.

Steve was born on May 13, 1957, to Roy and Betty Jones in Edina, MN. On September 22, 1984, he married the love of his life, Pam. Though they did not have children, their lives were richly filled with the love of many dogs who were cherished members of their family throughout their 40-year marriage.

In 1985, Steve founded Pave Tech as a paving installation company. He quickly recognized a critical gap in the market for reliable edge restraints, which led him to design, develop, and patent what would become known as Pave Edge in 1987. His innovative edging system became a game changer, improving the strength and efficiency of pavement installations. Over the next 30 years, Pave Tech became a leader in the development and distribution of paving tools and products across the U.S. Steve’s contributions went far beyond invention; he was deeply committed to educating contractors and advancing best practices in interlocking concrete pavement construction.

Steve was also an active member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, where he served in several roles, including his final position in Public Affairs. He served until 2021, when health issues prevented his continued involvement. He loved the water and spent countless joyful hours maintaining and enjoying their houseboat, scuba diving with friends, and participating in Coast Guard patrols. He was also an avid hunter and cherished his many trips out West with close companions.

In 2020, Steve sold Pave Tech and initially planned to retire and enjoy more time with Pam and their dogs. However, his passion for innovation led him to start a new venture; Fortress Edging and Typhoon.  Through this new company he aimed to improve his edging products and continue developing the Typhoon paver cleaner and vacuum system. Sadly, his work was cut short when he contracted necrotizing fasciitis in late 2021, leading to the loss of his right leg.

Despite the many health challenges he faced in the years that followed, Steve remained determined and courageous, fighting to regain his strength and independence with the support of Pam and his dedicated caregiver, Louis. His perseverance, even in the face of repeated illness and hardship, was an inspiration to those around him.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Betty Jones; his mother-in-law, Jean; his brother, David; and their beloved dogs Shensi, Onyx, Hannah, Bella, Mia, Maddie, Lola, and Gina. He is survived by his devoted wife, Pam, and their cherished dogs, Stella and Mattis.

Steve will be remembered for his innovative spirit, his generosity, and his deep love for Pam, their dogs, and the many friends and colleagues whose lives he touched.