William "Bill" Lloyd Owens

Bill was the son of Russell and Florence (Young) Owens, born in North Canton, Ohio on November 9, 1930. He was preceded in death by his brother, John R. Owens. Bill is survived by his wife, Jean, his high school sweetheart, they were married for 69 years. Also surviving are his children, Paula (Larry) Merten, David (Jeanne) Owens, Scott (Marisa) Owens, and Mark (Kelly) Owens, his grandchildren, Evan (Gina) Merten, Chase (Taylor) Merten, Allison (Mike) Ferguson, Jennifer Wilhelm, Matthew Owens, Clair Owens, Sydney Owens, Jake Owens, and Lily Owens, and four great grandchildren. Bill graduated from NoCaHi – class of 1948. He lettered in football, basketball, baseball, and track. He was co-captain of the first undefeated football team in NoCaHi history. The basketball team went to State in his senior year. He went on to play football at Colgate University on a full ride scholarship. Bill was team captain in his senior year and was named to the Associated Press All-East team. His college major was Latin, and he was a member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. Following his graduation in 1952, he joined the United States Marine Corp where he rose to the rank of Captain. There he was trained in the first Marine Under Water Demolition Squad and was captain of the Lejeune Marine Corp football team. Bill was an avid community volunteer, having served as chairman on the Board of the North Canton YMCA. He served as a football coach and league Commissioner for North Canton Youth Football. He was proud to serve on the Hall of Fame committee for 20+ years, last serving as General Chairman. Bill was in Industrial Sales for National Cash Register, the Hannon Electric Company, and Canton Supply, and was the owner of Canton Safety from 1982-1990. He was a charter member of the Stark County Safety Council and received numerous community service awards throughout his lifetime. He was honored to be inducted into the North Canton Alumni Association Hall of Distinction and the Hoover High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

It is with heavy hearts that we end our long goodbye with dad. Many thanks to the caring staff at the Inn at Whitewood and to Crossroads Hospice.

Calling hours for Bill will be held at Karlo-Libby Funeral Home in Canton on Friday, August 20, 2021 from 4-7pm. A memorial service will be held at Zion United Church of Christ in North Canton on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 11 am with Reverend Gary Smith officiating and military honors being performed by the 555th Honor Detachment.

For those who wish, memorial donations may be made in Bill’s name to Zion United Church of Christ in North Canton.