Pastor David Dale Owen

Pastor David Dale Owen, age 95, of Livonia, Michigan, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on Friday, July 3, 2026. He was born on July 19, 1930, in Vincennes, Indiana, to William and Zenith (Wilkes) Owen.

David lived a life devoted to his faith, his family, and the people he was called to serve. His greatest joy was sharing the love of Christ through ministry and building meaningful relationships with those around him. He believed deeply in the importance of connecting with people, and his compassionate heart, warm smile, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impact on countless lives.

In 1950, David married the love of his life, Eileen Owen, after first meeting her while she sang in the church choir. Though she was initially hesitant to go out with him, she eventually agreed, beginning a beautiful love story that spanned more than six decades. Together they built a loving home centered on faith, family, and service until Eileen's passing in May 2016.

Also in 1950, David answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. From 1950 to 1952, he faithfully served stateside repairing military aircraft. Following his military service, he attended seminary and prepared for the ministry that would become his life's calling.

Pastor Owen faithfully served congregations across several states throughout his ministry. He served as pastor of Ward Church in Detroit from 1968 to 1976 before accepting a pastoral call to Philadelphia, where he ministered from 1976 to 1984. He then returned to Indiana to pastor from 1984 to 1992 before serving as Senior Pastor of a church in Wayne, Michigan, from 1992 until 1996. Upon his retirement from full-time pastoral ministry, David returned to Ward Church in Northville, where he continued serving as a retired pastor and faithful member of the church family for the remainder of his life. Whether preaching from the pulpit, offering counsel, visiting those in need, or simply sharing conversation, David found great fulfillment in caring for others and pointing them toward Christ.

Above all else, David treasured his family. He delighted in watching his children grow, celebrating the accomplishments of his grandchildren, and later experiencing the joy of his great-grandchildren. Family gatherings were often filled with laughter, spirited board game competitions, and treasured memories. Those who knew David knew that he played to win, but always with love and good humor.

As a young couple, David and Eileen enjoyed spending evenings dancing together, creating memories that remained dear throughout their lives. In his younger years, David also loved waterskiing and embraced every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. One of his family's most cherished traditions was their annual trips to the Silver Lake Sand Dunes, where summers were filled with adventure, laughter, and togetherness. David also treasured spending time there with fellow pastors, enjoying the friendship and encouragement they shared.

David is survived by his loving children, Kimberly (Jeff) King and Rex Owen; his grandchildren, Joshua Owen, Amanda (Mike) Scott, and Jaclyn (Shawn) Watt; his beloved great-grandchildren, Lilliana, Nevaeh, Addison, Cooper, Angelina, Max, Evie, and Sophie; and his cherished companion, Patty.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Eileen Owen; and by his parents, William and Zenith (Wilkes) Owen.

Pastor David Owen will be remembered as a faithful servant of God, a devoted husband and father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, a loyal friend, and a man whose life reflected kindness, compassion, and unwavering faith. He truly loved life, loved people, and loved his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his ministry, his example, and his steadfast love.

A Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 am on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Ward Church, 40000 Six Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48168. Pastor Owen’s family will receive visitors at the Church on Friday from 9:30 am until the time of the Service at 11:00 am. Pastor David will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Cemetery in Dixboro, Michigan.