Owen was born at the family home in Southwest Mabou on August 11, 1941. Aunt Jessie told the children that Dr. MacNeil was coming and that shortly afterward there would be a surprise. The children went outside, convinced that Aunt Jessie was preparing a cake for the doctor. The surprise, of course, was a baby. Another one. Owen was Euphemia and Sam’s 12th of a family that would grow to 14.
Owen's story with his beloved wife, Marie, began in high school. Marie was convinced that Owen was interested in her twin sister, Anne, when in fact he was seeking Anne's help in getting Marie's attention. That courtship grew into a lifelong partnership that took them to Ontario, Halifax, and eventually back home to Mabou, to Marie's former family home. They were beautiful dancers and a wonderful team. Anytime Harvest Moon came on the radio, a spontaneous dance could lead them through the kitchen and into the living room. Owen and Marie built a life grounded in love, partnership, devotion, and mutual care. Owen gave his sons a lasting example of marital devotion, showing love through acts of service, caring for his wife, and never forgetting to keep dating the woman he loved. They were hand in hand everywhere they went.
Their home was always open, welcoming aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends from both sides of the family. Countless barbecues, Christmas parties, special occasions, and times of sorrow were shared together under their roof. It was a place where people gathered, family bonds were strengthened and encouraged, and everyone was made to feel welcome. Owen was equally devoted to his heritage and family history. He took great pride in organizing and hosting family reunions, family monuments, bringing generations together and preserving the connections that meant so much to him.
Throughout his professional career, Owen made lasting contributions to the Strait Regional School District. He established safety standards for school bus driver training and maintenance that were adopted by other districts across the Maritimes. He also developed building maintenance standards that helped revitalize school buildings throughout the district. Twenty-five years ago he retired, and went immediately back to work for John Cameron trucking, and performing home construction and renovations literally until the week of his passing.
His commitment to service extended well beyond his professional life. An avid community volunteer, Owen generously contributed not only his time but also his considerable skills in planning, estimating, and preparing proposals and grant applications. His deep Roman Catholic faith found expression through many years as a catechism teacher, service on parish committees, and his service as a Eucharistic minister. The family has been deeply moved by the messages received from former catechism students, reflecting the lasting impact he had on their lives.
Owen loved the outdoors and exploring. Over the years he enjoyed motorcycle camping trips, kayaking, hiking, cross-country skiing, and curling. In recent years, he was fortunate to be surrounded by wonderful friends, including Mary MacNeil, Margie MacInnis, Kay Dugas and family and Peter MacInnis & Lisa Kidd and their beautiful children, whose friendship and support meant a great deal to him.
Owen will be lovingly remembered by his wife and greatest love, Marie; sons, Derrick (Melody) and Geoffrey; grandchildren, Bronson (Susie) and Anna; surviving siblings, Gennie, Donald, Margie, Pat, and Anne and his many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings, Rita, Alec, Mary, Lawrence, Raymie, John, Bonnie, and Angus.
Owen leaves behind a legacy of profound faith and service, devotion, and family. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Visitation will be held in the vestry of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Mabou on Thursday November 5th, 2:00pm to 4:00pm and 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday November 6th at 11:00am at St. Mary's Catholic Church officiated by Fr. Barrett Clare-Johnson with Fr. David Rankin. Burial to follow in the parish cemetery.
Donations can be made in his name to The Inverary Manor Auxiliary or to St. Mary's Building Fund.
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com
