William Owens

William Owens Jr., age 79, died Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center in Detroit. He was born in Detroit on July 7, 1935 to the late William Owens and the late Catherine (nee: Boardman) Owens.Being the hardworking and loyal guy that he was, Bill was quite proud of the 27 years of dedicated service he gave to the rubber giant, Uniroyal. It is there that he worked diligently to provide for his family and, ultimately, earn the joys of retirement. Considering the scope of the products involved, his children's early years were filled with memories of Dad taking them to the Keds store where the infamous sneakers were sold,…of course, produced in part with the rubber from Dad's place of business. As a side job, Bill also drove a tow truck for the AAA Insurance Company and was the "Knight in Shining Armor" for many-a-stranded driver over the years. He took his work seriously and extended the utmost in strong work ethics, and also took away from the job some of the best friendships that were both enjoyed and treasured.And all of that hard work wasn't for naught. Though his efforts didn't make him a millionaire, still,…he was rich in many other ways, especially when it came to family. He was always looking for ways to create those Hallmark moments and memories,…you know, those cherished family times that remain in our hearts and minds forever,…and he was truly successful. Part of those memories included the rides on the family boat to Peach Island where Bill and the family loved to enjoy some summer fun. It was also where he taught the kids to swim. Yet, "taught" may not be the ideal word. It was more like "fraught" as it became a "sink or swim" decision while traveling through mid-air into the water. Scary then,…hilarious now! Then there's the memories of Belle Isle when Bill would take the clan for a family outing. They'd prepare the popcorn in anticipation for feeding the deer and ducks that called the island home. Winter would find them enjoying a bit of ice skating with Dad. Another set of great memories were woven around the joys of camping,…and Bill did it in style with his treasured 5th Wheel. Camping with tents had lost its charm, and was now replaced with many of the comforts of home,…but still with an outdoorsy edge. He loved the outdoors, especially when he was sharing it with his buddies on a deer hunting adventure up in Manistee. And his loved ones will never forget those precious Saturday nights at Aunt Barb's place,…the kids in one room watching Disney movies, and the adults in another playing a rousing game of cards. Those times are emblazoned on their hearts and will forever bring a welcomed escape with each reflection. When he found a moment for a little free time, you'd often find Bill tinkering on one of his cars, whether old or new. There was just something rewarding and invigorating about wrenching on a motor with the automotive prowess he possessed. He was also a huge Detroit Tiger's fan that found great enjoyment in watching his boys in blue & orange growl their way to a win. Another aspect of fun that Bill enjoyed involved heading west to Michigan's Sand Dune country and taming the hills with his fellow members in the Dune Buggy Club. Not every state affords a person the chance to participate in such a unique sport, but Bill sought it out and ate up every minute of the exhilaration it held.He enjoyed his job,…fed his hobby hungers,…and lived for family. As kind and easy-going as he was, he was equally strong and forthright (some call it stubborn). Frankly, there's many traits that could describe Bill, but most importantly are the ones that will be remembered for eternity,…the ones that bring a warm & happy smile, or better yet,…a great belly laugh. He touched many people in many different ways and leaves a legacy that stands alone. A loving husband, father and grandfather, he will be missed immensely and loved eternally.He was the beloved husband of the late Shirley. Loving father of Susan Owens-Rennie, Cindy Scott, William A. (Glenda) Owens, Thomas (Rosanne) Owens,Renee (Michael) Junga, Colleen Costandza, and Kevin (Tammy) Tavner. Devoted grandfather of Brenden, Garrett, Collin, Ashley, Angela, Briana, Brittney, Steven, Jeffery, Ashley, Kyle, Brooke, Cody, Melissa, and Austin. Great grandfather of Russell Jr., Brionna, and Braylin. Brother of the late Wallace, Juanita, Barbara, and Jacqueline. He was also survived by many nieces and nephews.Visitation for William will be held on Sunday, July 13th from 3-9pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 1/2 Mile) in Warren. Funeral Services will be held on Monday, 10:30am at the funeral home. Officiating the service will be Pastor Walter Keller. Interment, with Military Honors, will follow at Utica Cemetery in Utica, Michigan.Please share memories of Bill at his memory book.