Mildred K. "Millie" Owen

Mildred "Millie" K. Owen, 95, of Watertown, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Spero Heritage Homes.
Mildred "Millie" Kehl was born on August 8, 1930, in Almond, WI, the daughter of Fritz "Fred" and Angela "Nellie" (Lazarewicz) Kehl.
Following her graduation from Almond High School, she furthered her education later in life. In her 60s, she attended Gateway Technical College, where she earned an Associate of Applied Science degree and was recognized for her academic excellence on the 1990 Dean's List. Millie enjoyed a career as a commercial artist, lending her talents to both Western Publishing and Romme Printing. Throughout her life, she was a resident of Menomonee Falls and Racine before moving more recently to Watertown.
A gifted artist, Millie was a fantastic painter who particularly excelled in watercolors. Her commitment to her craft was evident in the art classes she attended and the photography she enjoyed. Beyond her studio and her kitchen, Millie was an avid traveler, with her memorable journey to China standing out as a highlight of her adventures.
Millie began her journey with The Rosicrucian Order in 1966, where she was recognized for being exceptionally active and interesting. Over the decades, she served as secretary, treasurer, and three-time Master (1969, 1974, 1986). Beyond her local branch, she served as State Regional Monitor for three years and was a vital member of the Midwest Regional Committee. Dedicated to the growth of others, Millie authored several essential resources, including a detailed instruction booklet and a manual for convention setup, "Guidelines for Welcoming the Public." Her ability to bridge tradition with the future was evident in her handbook on modern technologies for affiliated bodies, "Tips for Affiliated Bodies" and she shared her personal philosophy in her work, "Live Life Abundantly."
Millie is survived by her children, Sharon (Paul) Owen-Linstroth, Janice Owen-Schieber, and Dianne Owen-Madison; grandchildren, Kelly (Shane Nelson) Schieber-Nelson, Crystal (Rick Berry) Schieber-Berry, Kenneth Schieber, Abigail Schieber, Travis Nelson, Aaron (Sara) Madison, Jacob Madison, and Brielle Madison; great-grandchildren, Erik Berry, Amelia Berry, Pearl Berry, Abraham Madison, Archer Madison, Collin Madison, Kylie Madison, Karsyn Madison, and Rio Madison.
Millie is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Bernice Kehl; brother, Arden Kehl; and the father of her children, Charles P. Owen.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a memorial service at Bridlewood Condominium Clubhouse (786 Bridlewood Dr. Hartford, WI) on Sunday January 18, 2026 from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Inurnment will take place at North Almond Cemetery at a later date.