It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, brother and dear friend, Kerry Lee Owen, who passed away peacefully on July 28, 2024.
Kerry was born on June 6, 1948 to his parents, Archie and Meta (Whanger) Owen who, along with Kerry’s sisters, Linda Malmberg and Becky Owen, preceded him in death.
He leaves behind his loving wife Kathryn (Hooker) Owen, his sister Jackie (Jeff) Cunningham, and many dear friends.
Kerry was a U.S. Navy veteran who loved his country passionately. He was an E-5 Petty Officer, machinist and advanced open water diver, taking part in three Vietnam combat deployments from 1968 to 1972. He served on the USS Kearsarge and USS Coral Sea aircraft carriers.
He also became a journeyman tool machinist and manufacturing engineer who loved working on and with cars and motorcycles. After his service in the Navy he co-partnered a business where he built customized engines and drag-racing motorcycles. One of his custom-built motorcycles was even featured in a commercial with Mario Andretti.
Kerry lived life to the fullest and would often push the limits in doing so… several times with some severe injuries being the consequence. But he was blessed to recover and continue to do what he loved and to enjoy life in many ways.
He enjoyed airplanes and flying, and became a single-engine land pilot. He took law enforcement training and enjoyed both tactical shooting and hunting. He was an avid deer hunter who appreciated both the food they supplied and their beauty, with several trophy deer mounts as a result of his hunting skills.
Kerry excelled in all he did, including fixing whatever needed to be fixed. He seemed to be able to repair anything, even enjoying the challenge at times of figuring out the problem and how to solve it. He and Kathy both appreciated the great savings they received by Kerry being able to fix so many things himself.
Kerry and Kathy enjoyed being members of the Gateway Cobra Club of St Louis, where they made many friendships and shared mutual interests and fun times together. They, along with other friends, have been a blessing to Kathy in helping her after Kerry passed, which she appreciates so much.
Kerry will be missed but never forgotten… his life has made an impact on many, both in practical ways, in valuable friendships, and in making many special memories of events and time spent together.
We are comforted knowing he is with his Savior, enjoying living life to the fullest as never before… and likely achieving speeds on his “Funny Bike” beyond his wildest imagination! :)
Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 7, 2024 from 5-8pm at Follis & Sons Funeral Chapel, 700 Plaza Dr. Fredericktown, MO 63645
Burial will be at 11:30 am on August 8, 2024 at: Jefferson Barracks, 2900 Sheridan Road St. Louis, MO 63125
