Owen was born in Crandon, WI, on January 2, 1943, the son of Richard R. and Charlotte E. DeWitt Rugg. He married Louella Mae Sprinkle on January 26, 1964. They shared 59 wonderful years together.
Owen grew up in Havana, IL after moving there at the age of 14. In 1961, he graduated from Havana High School. He was employed at Sangamon State University, which later became University of Illinois, where he retired as Director of Auxiliary Services. Strong in his faith, he attended West Side Christian Church. Owen was a dedicated servant of the Lord to his community. He served as a Sunday school teacher, Deacon, and a Laymen’s Retreat Director.
Owen was a loyal husband and a loving father. He loved all sports which includes ping pong and racquetball. He was known for his competiveness and was an avid horseshoe and card games player. He also loved fishing and enjoyed cruising with family and friends over the last 34 years. Owen kept an immaculate yard, and he enjoyed feeding the birds with various bird houses he had. He also treasured his extensive elephant collection that he obtained from around the world. Owen was an avid Atlanta Braves and Green Bay Packers fan. He never met a stranger.
Owen is survived by his wife, Louella Rugg; daughters, Janice (Larry) Davis of St. Charles, MO, Brenda (Chris) Reavis of Athens, and Kerri (Mike) Taylor of Springfield; seven grandchildren, Kalie, Tanner, and Caden Reavis, Sydni Davis (Jordan) Farhat, and Noah and Elijah Taylor; one great-grandson, Isaiah Farhat; brother, Richard (Karen) Rugg of Goodyear, AZ; sister, Bonnie Rugg of Sherman, IL; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Gerald Rugg, Sharon Hardy, and Duane Rugg.
Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 23, 2023, at West Side Christian Church, 2850 Cider Mill Lane, Springfield.
Funeral Ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at West Side Christian Church, Springfield, with Pastor Riley Powell officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made to Inner City Mission.
The family is being served by Boardman-Smith Funeral Home, 800 South Grand Avenue West, Springfield.
