David Athen Owens

David Athen Owens, 92, of Salem, Va., passed peacefully in his sleep, into heaven's gates on Sunday, June 21, 2009, at Lewis Gale Medical Center. He spent his last day, Father's Day, happily with friends and family. Dave was the eldest and last surviving child of the late Lewis and Evie Owens, being predeceased by three siblings, Robert and James Owens and Elvie Owens Doyle. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 63 years, Mattie Wood Owens, who died on October 4, 2004. Together they raised three sons who survive them. He will be greatly missed by them and his daughter-in-laws, Wayne and Gail Owens, of Roanoke County, Richard (Buddy) and Cindy Owens, of Salem, and Samuel (Tom) and Lynn Owens, of Roanoke. He is also survived by six special grandchildren, David Owens Jr., Lisa Owens Brookshier, Cheryl Owens Moore, Amy Owens Duff, Shannon Owens Mitchell and Beth Owens Haley; and 11 special great-grandchildren. Dave was a United States Army veteran of World War II serving in the European theater with the 60th infantry division. He was a welder by trade having worked at Salem Foundry and retired from Salem Harmmermill. He enjoyed working in his garden and around his home until health intervened five to six years ago. Dave loved his Lord and family in that order and was a faithful member and deacon of Gospel Baptist Church for many years until health prevented him from attending church. He loved to sing gospel songs and although he never bad a formal lesson he learned to play the accordion, guitar and organ. Lotz Funeral Home in Salem is serving the Owens' family. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, from 6 to 8 p.m. Services will be held 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2009, in the Lotz Salem Chapel with the Pastor Sam Hunley officiating. Internment will follow at Cedar Lawn Cemetery with the United States Army and the Disabled American Veterans of the Roanoke Valley providing Military Honors. The family would like to thank the staff on 6 West of Lewis Gale Hospital for their professional and dedicated care and compassion shown to Dave and his family during his short stay there. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a favorite charity of your choice.