Edward Owens

Passed away at home on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 with his family at his side. EJ was born in River Rouge, Michigan on February 17, 1929, the son of the late Edward J., Sr. and Minnie (Durocha) Owens. He was a 1947 graduate of Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School and went on to attend Central Michigan University. He played football in high school and at CMU and was known as the "Fleet Footed Flashy Flame from the twin C." EJ was a proud American who served his country honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was employed as an advertising salesman for the Kalamazoo Gazette, where he retired from after 38 years of employment. EJ was a fun-loving husband, father and grandfather who was always happy and joking. He was an avid bridge and poker player and loved music and dancing with his wife. EJ also enjoyed traveling after he retired. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, the former Barbara J. Sherman, who he married on July 21, 1951. EJ is also survived by five children, Bill (Yvonne), Tom, Scott, Cindy and Todd; nine grandchildren, Renee (Dave), Sean, Natalie (Steven), Jonathon, Veronica, Jennifer, Miranda, Cecelia and Clayr; three great-grandchildren, Ryker, Roman and Lincoln; sister, Mary Cleypool, brother, John (Genevieve) Owens and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sisters, Shirley McCartin and Dorothy Parente and brother, Don Owens. A memorial mass will be held on Tuesday, April 3, 2018 at 11:00 AM at St. Thomas More Catholic Parish, 421 Monroe St., Kalamazoo, MI 49006; Fr. Dan Hyman celebrant. Visitation will take place at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial with full military honors will take place at Ft. Custer National Cemetery on Wednesday, April 4, 2018 at 11:30 AM. Memorial contributions may be made to Reverence Home Health and Hospice, St. Thomas More Catholic Parish or the Alzheimer's Association, c/o the funeral home. Family and friends may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.