Karl Richard Owens

Karl Richard Owens of Fort Walton Beach, affectionately known as “Krazy Karl”, aged 69, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025. He was born on August 22, 1956, in Prüm, Germany, while his father was serving in the United States Air Force. As an infant, Karl moved with his family to Panama City Beach, Florida while his father was stationed at Tyndall Air Force Base. In 1964, he moved to Fort Walton Beach where he would spend the rest of his life building both a family and a legacy rooted in hard work, humor, and care for others. He graduated from Choctawhatchee High School in 1975.

Karl spent his professional life as a carpenter and worked for Anderson Construction for several years before starting his own construction and remodeling business. He took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to doing a job the right way. He also greatly enjoyed working alongside his brother for over 28 years, valuing the time spent together as much as the work itself. Karl believed in showing up, following through, and working a job until it was perfect, values that he carried into every aspect of his life.

In 2002, Kiana Rená Owens, his daughter and the center of his world, was born. Everything he did was for her. He enthusiastically supported and was greatly involved in all of her activities including Girl Scouts, Color Guard, Cheer and Orchestra. In his later years, Karl lived with Kiana in Gainesville, Florida, where he found joy existing with his favorite person. He enjoyed cooking meals, running errands, and walking their dog, Koda Milo. 

In addition, Karl loved woodworking and fixing or building whatever he could get his hands on. He was always on the lookout for his next project. Karl had a knack for designing spaces and was skilled in interior design. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing games on his phone and listening to feel good music.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bobby Edward Owens; mother, Martha Owens (née Kennedy); sister, Donna Owens and stepsister Shirley Pope.

Karl is survived by his daughter Kiana Rená Owens and step-daughter Sarah Nicole Broaddus (Louis); brother, Robert Owens (Beth); half-sister, Denise Owens (Chuck); nephews, Matthew Owen Henry, Chad Evans (Lisa), and James Marsh; and nieces, Alexis Crittenden (Montell) and Caitlin Brackin (Justin); as well as countless other family members and friends.

Over the course of his life, Karl made countless friends — always eager to strike up a conversation, tell jokes, and share stories. He never met a stranger. This was his gift to the world: his humor and vibrant personality that brought joy and laughter to the lives of everyone who had the fortune of meeting him. He will be remembered for this, along with his generosity, selflessness, and kindness.

Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, January 9th, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at The Place on Beal, 100 Beal Street Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548. Flowers, plants, and cards are welcome. The family asks that you wear Hawaiian shirts/luau attire or the color orange (or both!)