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WILLIAM OWEN On Monday, January 2, 2017, Bill Owen, loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend to many, died unexpectedly at St. Boniface General Hospital. He was 87. Dad was born December 18, 1929 in Belmont, Manitoba, the only son of William and Jane Owen, who had immigrated to Canada from Anglesey, Wales. Dad left home at 17 to first begin a career in banking, but soon switched jobs to find his calling as a travel agent, a profession that allowed him to visit almost every corner of the globe. He is survived by his closest travel companion and wife of almost 58 years, Margaret. They first met on an escorted blind date, when mom was a teacher in Flin Flon, arranged by her parents and his friends. Their first date as a couple was New Year's Eve 60 years ago to attend the Bank of Montreal dinner and dance. Dad is also survived by his son Bruce; wife Judy and daughters, Michelle and Laura; daughter Nancy; wife Gail and daughters Katherine, Madeline and Margaret; son Geoffrey and sons Stewart and Alexander. Dad found great comfort in his life-long Christian faith and its music. He served as organist and choirmaster at Christ Church (Anglican) on Corydon Avenue and Saint Paul's Anglican Church in Fort Garry. In later years he was a choir member and parishioner at St. George's Anglican Church (Crescentwood). Between duties at home and work trips, Bill sang with the Winnipeg Philharmonic Choir and was a founding member of the St. David's Singers of Winnipeg. Until his passing, Bill volunteered at West Broadway Community Ministries and regularly played piano for residents at numerous personal care homes in Winnipeg. Dad also found joy at his and mom's cottage at Victoria Beach. Most recently, he sauntered down to the top of the stairs at Connaught Beach to sit and chat with everyone he knew, and to say "Hello" to those he didn't. When the snow goes, his ashes will be interred at Victoria Beach Cemetery. Dad's death leaves a big void in our family. Yet he left surrounded by his greatest treasure, his family. We stood hand-in-hand around his hospital bedside saying these words, words he lived by each day and words we will try to live by in his memory: Lord Jesus be our holy guest, Our morning joy, our evening rest. And with our daily bread impart, Thy love and peace to every heart. Amen A celebration of Bill's life will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 7, 2017 at St. George's Anglican Church, 168 Wilton St. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to West Broadway Community Ministries, 222 Furby St. Winnipeg, R3C 2A7 or St. George's Memorial Fund Inc., 168 Wilton St. Winnipeg, R3M 3C3. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com
Publish Date: Jan 5, 2017
WILLIAM OWEN 1929 - 2017 Unexpectedly on Monday, January 2, 2017, with family by side, Bill passed away at the St. Boniface Hospital at the age of 87 years. Arrangements are pending. Longer notice to follow. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com
Publish Date: Jan 3, 2017
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 05, 2017
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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My sincere condolences to Margaret and family. My first memory of Bill was meeting him as a volunteer at the Manitoba Music Festival some 40 years ago when he was involved with the final concerts of the musicians. He stood next to my late husband Ben in the top row of the Winnipeg Philharmonic Choir for many years, & loved that Choir. I have the fondest memories of this very joyful musical enthusiastic man. Margaret Moroz. - Posted by: Mrs Margaret Moroz (Friend) on: Jan 08, 2017
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Loved working with Bill! He kept up laughing with his stories which added much enjoyment to the office. We often teased him about being the travel agent for all of the 'blue rinse' ladies! My thoughts are with the family at this time. Peace unto you. - Posted by: Deanne Irwin (Heavysege) (Work friend from Thomas Cook Travel ) on: Jan 06, 2017
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I am saddened to hear of Bill's passing. We worked together for many years at Continental Travel and shared many laughs and stories. He always had a smile on his face and his good humor touched many people. He was also my sounding board when I needed one and a shoulder to cry on. I will carry my fond memories of him with me always and the world has lost a good man. My condolences to Margaret and to all of his family. I'm sure he be up there leading the angels' choir now. - Posted by: Oriana Elliott (Former Co-worker) on: Jan 05, 2017
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My prayers and condolences to the whole family. Bill always brought life and joy into a room. His enthusiasm for life and his love of people was amazing. A true servant of God who brought love and hope to many through music and service. - Posted by: The Rev Lyndon Hutchison-Hounsell (Past parish priest) on: Jan 05, 2017
