Jasper "Jack" David Owens, Jr., passed away peacefully on January 4, 2010, with his loving wife Barbara by his side. Jack was born in Neenah, Wisconsin on March 25, 1921 to Jasper Sr. and Flora Owens. He attended a one room school house with other children and graduated high school in the late 1930's. In 1941, Jack met his soon to be wife Barbara Sue Dessért while at the first USO dance ever held. Barbara tapped him on the shoulder and asked if he would like to dance. Their beautiful love story began and lasted for 66 years. At the start of their marriage, Jack served in the United States Army during World War II and served his country faithfully for six years, as did his father and his two brothers. On his return home, he worked many years as a technician for GTE and eventually worked his way up to Supervisor.
Jack had an incredible passion for woodworking and was a very skilled craftsman. Over the years he built many beautiful pieces of furniture that his family will cherish for years to come.
Jack is survived by his wife Barbara Owens, the "jewel" of his life, a son, Mark Owens, of San Clemente, Calif., a sister Jean Topete of Modesto, Calif., three granddaughters, Michele Tappeiner of Santa Barbara, Calif., Stephanie Wilcox of Colorado Springs, Colo., Madison Owens of Garden Grove, Calif., and six great-grandchildren whom he loved and called them his greatest treasures. His death was preceded by his parents, his two brothers and his daughter, Karen Sue Smith.
Jack Owens has left a legacy of great faith, amazing strength and incredible wisdom that will live on for many years. He served his country, God, his family and friends with dignity and respect and will be greatly missed. We rest in the knowledge that Jasper is with our Heavenly Father and once again, holding his precious daughter.
Jack will be remembered at a funeral service held at 10 am, Friday, January 8, 2010, at Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home, 1703 Spring St. in Paso Robles. Burial will follow at Templeton Cemetery, Templeton, Calif