Charles Alfred OWEN III

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University of Southern California

Charles OWEN Obituary

OWEN III, Charles Alfred Nov. 15, 1935-Dec. 3, 2010 Mr. Owen died peacefully yet untimely after a brief illness, at his home in Indian Wells, wearing his favorite USC sweatshirt. Mr. Owen, known as Chuck, recently was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, but was felled by the rapid onset of pulmonary fibrosis. He was 75 years old. Mr. Owen grew up in Hancock Park. He married Linda Brown, of the prominent San Diego family, in July, 1973, and moved to La Jolla. Mrs. Owen already had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and it was Mr. Owen's determination and encouragement over the years that got her out of a wheelchair, walking on her own, and even playing golf. "He saved my life," is her frequent declaration. An avid golfer, Mr. Owen was a member of Los Angeles Country Club, La Jolla Country Club, La Quinta Country Club, and most recently, Indian Wells Country Club. World wide travel was a huge part of the Owens life; they visited almost every country from the North to the South pole. Mr. Owen is survived by his wife, four children, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Please make donations to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, 5950 La Placer Court #200, Carlsbad, CA 92008, or The Visiting Nurse Association, 42-600 Cook St. #200, Palm Desert, CA 92211. A celebration of Mr. Owen's life will be held Thursday, Jan. 13, at 3 PM, Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church, 42321 Hwy. 74, Palm Desert.

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Published by Los Angeles Times from Dec. 14 to Dec. 15, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles OWEN

12 Entries

December 26, 2010

It was a privilege to share our African journey with you and Chuck. He added so much to the experience--humor, knowledge, friendship, compassion and a sense of wonder and excitement. I don't know how he did it, but Chuck filled up a room with that huge personality of his without being overbearing at all. His dedication and love for you was so apparent and so rare--truly an inspiration. May you find comfort in knowing how many lives Chuck brightened. With sympathy and friendship.
Christine and Keith Kowal

Lisa Siberell

December 14, 2010

Dear Aunt Linda,
Uncle Chuck's sudden departure saddened me beyond measure...my heart hurts for you, and I wish I could help ease the pain you feel. His love for you was so special...it taught me alot about compassion, unconditional love and the power one has to help another. We will cherish the memories and the stories forever. I know he is safe with the Lord, and at peace....but he will be missed tremendously. I love you Uncle Chuck

David Atherton

December 14, 2010

Eleanor and I were both extremely upset to read the lovely, personal tribute to Chuck which appeared in the SD Union-Tribune. I wanted to write immediately to send you our heartfelt commiserations and regrets. You must be absolutely devastated. I was always struck by the togetherness which the two of you always expressed and I can only imagine the hollowness and emptiness you must be feeling after such a long and happy marriage.

It was a privilege to have known him for such a long time. His support was always unwavering, be it at the San Diego Symphony, or in founding the Mainly Mozart Festival.

Unfortunately we will both be in the Far East on Jan 13 or we would have made the short trip to Palm Desert for the Celebration. I'm sure it will be a less sombre occasion than many such events presided over by Chuck's enormously infectious smile.

We are very, very sorry. Much love, David

Janet Taylor

December 13, 2010

Dear Linda,
As I don,t have current address I will write you here. I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your precious Chuck. He was such a special person. I'll always remember him conducting the Symphony at Seaport Village. He did so many wonderful things in his life. You are in my prayers now and forever. Love Jan Barajas Taylor {your former hairdresser}

December 12, 2010

Dear Linda,
I just learned of Chuck' passing, and am very sorry for your loss. I remember happy occasions over the years, although it has been a while since I've seen you. Please accept my sympathy,
David Nelson

December 11, 2010

Dear Linda and Debra,
We were so sad to read of Chuck's sudden passing. Even 'though it has been several years since we've seen you, you are often in our thoughts. We will continue to hold dear the many memories of happy times and laughs with you and Chuck - Paris, San Diego, the desert. He had such a wonderful spirit, smile, and sense of humor!
May those memories, and the love of friends and family sustain you in the days to come...
Love, Donna and Lou Knierim

December 11, 2010

Linda and Family, We were deeply saddened to hear about Chuck and offer our sincere condolences. The memories of Chuck, from the many years together on the MS Board, to the concerts, dinners and other wonderful times together in San Diego and La Quinta, will be cherished forever. He will be remembered as a kind, generous and dedicated gentleman in every aspect of life and his frequent thought provoking and humorous e-mails will be terribly missed. Bob and Karyn Winn

December 10, 2010

I received a call today from Joan Greene who was a staff member with me when I was the Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of San Diego. Chuck was a dedicated Board Member and financial supporter. I always admired Chuck for standing by his wonderful wife Linda and helping her get around. I was so happy to hear Linda is now walking. My sincere sympathy to Linda and the Family.
Gary and Sharon Powers

jill brown

December 10, 2010

Our Chuck was Santa Claus in more than the usual way. We will remember him as one who 'gifted' us with his love for Linda and by giving of himself to all of us religiously, humorously and compassionately. We will miss him but we will keep him alive in our hearts. Jill

Jennifer Brown

December 10, 2010

Dear Uncle Chuck, we will always remember you as a kind man who took amazing care of our beautiful Aunt Linda. You always knew she could "do it"...and she has because of you. We will miss you and we know you're at peace now. love, Jenny

beverly jermyn

December 10, 2010

To Chuck "Sunny" Owen, a longtime and very valued friend. I will miss the many emails you sent with great fervor to me and all your friends. I will remember you always. My deepest condolences to your family and loved ones. Beverly Jermyn

December 10, 2010

Linda and Family, I read about Chuck this morning and thought about the wonderful times we had together with the Young Friends of the San Diego Symphony. Chuck was so much fun to be with at the parties in your home in La Jolla in the 70's. Thinking of you. Marilyn Allen Sawyer.

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