Robert Charles Owen

Robert Charles Owen was born on April 4, 1934, in Grants Pass, Oregon, to Ruby Ramsey and Oscar Puryear. He passed away peacefully with his family by his side on January 3, 2025, in Glendale, Arizona, entering the loving arms of his Savior.

Bob proudly served in the United States Air Force for 41 years, holding roles in both Active Duty and full-time National Guard positions. Throughout his career, his family relocated to various places, including Colorado Springs, Texas, and Germany. Bob was instrumental in overseeing mobile task force operations across the central and western United States and served as President of the Enlisted Association for the Oregon National Guard.

Beyond his military service, Bob demonstrated entrepreneurial and leadership skills in other aspects of his life. As a young man, he managed one of the first McDonald’s restaurants in Colorado, worked as the computer room manager for the newly formed Frontier Airlines, and was an installer for Western Electric. He was also active in his community, becoming president of a Colorado Jaycees chapter, promoting youth leadership and civic engagement.

Bob had a profound passion for music and faith. He loved singing and was a dedicated member of church choirs throughout his life. He served as a Deacon in several congregations. His selflessness extended to organizing relief efforts for victims of natural disasters, driven by his unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Having accepted Jesus as his Savior at the age of 12, Bob remained a man of steadfast faith throughout his life.

A kind and caring man, with a warm heart and infectious smile, Bob touched the lives of many—not only those of his family and friends but also the countless animals in his life. He was an avid auto enthusiast and owned over 65 cars in 65 years of collecting. Retiring gave him the well-deserved time for flying his radio-controlled airplanes, enjoying golf, going on more road trips and creating beautiful stained-glass art. During his lifetime, he also was a skilled home builder and renovator, and looked forward to times when he could go snowmobiling, ATV and four-wheel trail riding, fishing and hunting.

After raising his family in Colorado, Bob divided his time between Oregon and Arizona, cherishing the moments he spent with his loved ones.

Bob will be remembered for his unwavering faith, love for family, and zest for life. His legacy of kindness, service, and passion will live on in the lives of those he touched and the family he so deeply loved.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Eva Stanton-Owen; his children: Pamela Kidd, Cynthia Owen, Robert K. Owen, and daughter-in-law Jeanine Owen. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Owen.

He is also survived by his siblings: Ernest Owen (Nancy) and David Owen (Linda); and was preceded in death by Oscar Pryor Jr., Peggy Pryor, Harden Puryear and Myrna Owen.

His grandchildren: Jessica, Kaela, Cortney, Joshua, Caitlyn, Tyler, Owen and Evan; and great-grandchildren: Emma, Tristin, Kane, and Leland also mourn his passing, along with many stepchildren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.