James Edward Owens

James Edward Owens, 63, of Glen Carbon, Illinois passed away at 2:29 p.m. on Friday, November 5, 2010 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville. He was born March 1, 1947 in Indianapolis, Indiana, a son of the late Lloyd Owens and Catherine (Davidson) Whelchel. He married Linda Annette (Miller) Owens on December 16, 1967 in Bemidji, Minnesota and she survives. He was a General Foreman with Marathon Pipeline in Wood River with 33 years of dedicated service. The United States Air Force veteran proudly served his country during the Vietnam War and was the recipient of many medals and awards during his service. James was a member of the Ultra-Marathon Cycling Association and the Edwardsville Moose Lodge. He spent his childhood in Fortville, Indiana and was a graduate of the Mt. Vernon, Fortville, Indiana High School Class of 1965. He was an avid cyclist, enjoyed his days of fishing and golfing and will be remembered for the love and special times shared with his family and friends. In addition to his wife, he is survived by four daughters and two sons-in-law, Shannon and Dave Barr of Maryville, Kelly and Tim Swallers of Crown Point, Indiana, Holly Owens of Edwardsville and Susie Owens of Glen Carbon; six grandchildren, Jordyn Barr, Devon Barr, Madison Barr, Alexandria Swallers, Samantha Swallers and Jack Kohlmeier; one brother and sisters-in-law, Robert and Sandy Owens of Indiana; one sister, Virginia Graves of Indiana; many nieces; nephews; other extended family and many friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Floyd Whelchel. In celebration of his life, visitation will be at Irwin Chapel, 591 Glen Crossing Road in Glen Carbon on Wednesday, November 10, 2010 from 4:00 p.m. until time of funeral service at 7:00 p.m. with Reverend Gary Steffaniak officiating. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association and may be accepted at the funeral home.