Donald “Don” L. Owen Obituary (2021)

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of our precious father, Donald "Don" L. Owen on Thursday, June 17th 2021. He transitioned with the help of Haven Hospice at his home with family and favorites. th Don, age 86, was born in Madison, FL to Franklin J. "Jeff" Owen and Ada Williams Owen. He graduated from Bronson High School where he played basketball, earning Player of the Game in the 1952 Basketball Tournament. He worked for the Department of Forestry and Georgia Pacific before relocating to Gainesville with his bride in 1962. He had a 30+ year career with the City of Gainesville as a lineman and crew foreman before retiring in 1987. He was frequently amused that he had been retired longer than he worked and how he no longer worried that he'd be called out to work during heavy rainstorms. He was quick-witted and always ready to cut the fool with anyone who would engage in his antics. He loved the outdoors and there were few weekends that did not have camping, fishing or hunting adventures included. In his golden years, he preferred a good football game with a big bowl of ice cream. He is preceded in death by his sweetheart and wife of 49 years, Dorothy Lane Owen, parents, Jeff and Ada Owen, brothers, Ray Owen and Leon Owen, and sister Betty Berryhill. He is survived by his daughters, Jenny Owen Peck and Debbie Owen-Pirkle of Gainesville, brother, Frank Owen of Gulf Hammock, FL. and sister, Pamm Disjardin of Two Rivers, WI and his fur babies Charlie, Linus and Lucy. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, June 22, 2021, at 11:00 AM in the Milam Funeral Home Chapel, Gainesville. Burial will follow in the Chiefland Cemetery, 412 E Park Ave, Chiefland, FL. Visitation will be one hour prior to funeral services. The family would like to thank Haven Hospice and Comfort Keepers for the care and compassion shared during this time and ask that in lieu of flowers contributions be made to Haven Hospice, 4200 NW 90th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32606. th Arrangements are under the care of MILAM FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, 311 S. Main St. Gainesville, FL. 352-376-5361