Jake Wayne Owen

 

Jacob Wayne Owen, 25, of Lorena, went home to be with Jesus on Monday, October 2nd, 2023 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Jake was born on September 9, 1998 in Waco, Texas to his proud parents, Craig and Teresa Owen. Jake was a 2017 graduate of Lorena High School where he was involved in Athletics, Ag, and FFA. After graduating high school, Jake went on to graduate from the fire academy at McLennan Community College in Waco, where he excelled with honors. Jake's dream of becoming a firefighter, inspired by his father, Craig, of Georgetown Fire Department, became a reality when he joined the Jarrell Fire Department in 2018. His dedication and hard work led to a promotion to Engineer, a position he was thrilled to hold. Jake was also a proud member of the Honor Guard, had swift water and tech rescue training, and designed the challenge coin for the Jarrell Fire Department. He absolutely loved being a firefighter and he loved his crew. You never heard a complaint come out of Jake’s mouth. He would dive head first into any challenge and would go all in no matter the circumstances. Above all, Jake strived to excel within his profession and was always pushing to become an even better fireman in order to best serve others and his community. He was the most servant-hearted individual and we are so incredibly proud of him for that.

Jake's personality was so pure and sweet. He had an infectious smile and magical hugs that many people got the chance to feel. There was rarely a time where he wasn't playing praise and worship music in his truck or watching funny, silly shows or movies that made him laugh. He had a way of living that others strive for. Slow to anger, quick to forgive. Jake absolutely loved spending time with his grandparents, going to movies, and hanging out with his girlfriend, Kristin. He and his sister, Bailey, had an unbreakable bond. One word to describe him is selfless. He spent the entirety of his diagnosis worried about everyone but himself. Jake and his Dad were inseparable and worked together every day to make sure he was the healthiest he could possibly be. Due to the diagnosis, Jake's family was able to hug him and tell him “I Love You” every day from the very beginning.  While we didn't get enough time, there is no doubt that he knew he was loved. Not a day shall pass that he is not missed dearly. However, peace can be found in the knowledge that he is resting in the arms of his Savior in Heaven and is free from all earthly pain and sickness.

Overall, Jake's warm personality, huge heart, beautiful smile, unwavering faith, and famous hugs left a lasting imprint on all those fortunate enough to know him.

Jake is preceded in death by his great grandparents, Melvin “Buck” and Pat Stookey, Dorothy and Ray F. Coats, Albert and Alice Wilson, and JD and Marie Owen.

He is survived by his loving parents, Craig and Teresa Owen; his younger sister, Bailey Grimm and her husband, Zane Grimm; his girlfriend, Kristin Forrest; his grandparents, Don and Barbara Coats, and Mike and Paula Owen; his aunts and uncles, Kristi and John Kane,  Dawn and Bobby Coats; his cousins, Ayden Coats, Callan Schueller and her husband, Jannik, and Corey Holmes and his wife, Sloan and their daughter, Hunter; many extended family members, friends, and first responders.

Jake leaves behind a legacy that will forever be cherished. Although he may no longer be physically present with us, his spirit will remain alive through the memories we shared, the impact he made on our lives, and his dedication to his profession.

To honor Jake's memory, a series of viewings will take place at Crotty Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Belton. The first viewing will be held on October 5, 2023, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the second viewing on October 6, 2023, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. These gatherings will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and loved ones to come together, share stories, and support each other during this difficult time. There will be no opportunities for viewing at his funeral service.

Jake's funeral service will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at Lorena High School Performance Art Center in Lorena with Pastor Heath Kirkwood Officiating. Jake will be arriving by fire procession from Jarrell Fire Station a few minutes prior to his funeral services. After Jake's funeral services there will be no graveside. Jake's wishes were to be cremated.

In lieu of flowers, Jake’s family would love to honor him and give back to the community through the Jake Owen Foundation. In effort to award scholarships to future fire fighters each year. Donations will be accepted at Eagle Bank located at 12345 N. Interstate HWY 35 in Jarrell or to the Jarrell Fire Department.

Job well done, good and faithful servant.