Rev. T. Owen Candler

He was born November 29, 1931 in Lynchburg, VA to George A. and Lillian Bessie (Robertson) Candler. He married Ida E. White on June 2, 1954 in Wilmore, KY. She survives.

Also surviving are their four children, Cindy (Michael) Wallen of Groveland, Melody (Steve) Bennett of Peoria, Thomas Owen (Esperanza) Candler Jr. of Tremont, and Robin (Allan) Birkey of Brazil, IN; 18 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Owen served in the Naval Reserves in Lynchburg, VA from 1948 to 1951. He then attended and graduated from Asbury College in Wilmore, KY, before attending and graduating from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, IN. He served as a minister for over 42 years at several Illinois churches including churches in Dennison, Cowden, Hindsboro, Murrayville, Cropsey, Bellflower, Neponset, Grand Ridge and retired from this community before moving to Groveland to be near two of his daughters and son, and their families.

He was a member of Zion Evangelical United Methodist Church in Pekin, the Illinois Great Rivers Conference of the United Methodist Church, a past member of the Lions Club, worked in the Church Camping Program and served as a Volunteer Fireman in Bellflower and Neponset, IL. Owen also enjoyed singing in the choir for many years, holding evangelistic revival services, fishing, woodworking, camping, and spending time with his family.

A private family service will be held and burial will follow at the Zion Evangelical United Methodist Church Cemetery in Pekin. Remmert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to Zion Evangelical United Methodist Church, 3200 Cole Hollow Rd., Pekin, IL 61554 or to Preachers' Aid Society and Benefit Fund, P.O. Box 19207, Springfield, IL 62794.