Don Richard Owens

Don Owens, a longtime Los Osos resident and a local business owner of Owens Music Inc., passed away on January 17, 2024 at the age of 82. For over 50 years, Don worked to bring music, laughter and joy to music students and teachers throughout the Central Coast.

Don is preceded in death by his parents Glenn and Margaret Owens of Santa Maria. Don was born and raised in Santa Barbara, attending local Catholic schools and Santa Barbara City College. In his younger days, Don worked for his uncles at Santa Barbara Sand and Top Soil, until he started his musical journey at Owens Music in San Luis Obispo. Working side by side with his parents, sister, wife and sons he helped run 3 locations to help local classrooms, teachers, students and music aficionados spread the joy of music to the community.

Don is survived by his wife of over 50 years Carol, his 6 children, 19 Grandchildren and 10 Great Grandchildren as well as his sister Barbara Owens of Nipomo. He leaves behind his four sons: Don (Georgette) Owens of Santa Barbara, John (Lyla) Docker of Happy Valley, OR, Brian Owens of Los Osos, and Kevin (Jessica) Owens of San Luis Obispo, as well as two daughters Audrey Robinson of Solvang and Natalie (Ben) Graves of Santa Ynez.

Don loved all sports, was an avid bowler and baseball fan, amassing an impressive collection of baseball cards and memorabilia. He especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, going to the horse track and getting to the many stadiums in the country to attend baseball and football games. He loved talking sports with his children and grandchildren and watching them thrive in their endeavors. He loved movies, especially westerns, WWII movies and budget action films.

Don was a pillar in our community and will be greatly missed by his family, friends and those in the local musical community.