Samuel Ray Owens

Samuel Ray Owens passed away on October 24, 2025 at his home in Salina, KS. He was born, along with his twin sister, Sally, on June 26, 1953 in Independence, KS to Jack and Lorna (Koehling) Owens. In the early 60's, Jack moved their young family to Chapman and ran the local grocery store. Sam spent his younger years working at the store until he graduated from Chapman High School in 1971. He married Debra (Zumbrunn) Owens on June 23, 1979 and they had three children: Justin, Kyle, and Samantha. After raising a family in Chapman, Sam relocated to Salina where he later met and married Kimberlee (Brown) Owens on May 23, 2015.

He spent time coaching his children's baseball and softball teams, while also teaching them how to play other sports and developed their love for the game of golf. He was also an avid sports fan, cheering for the Kansas State Wildcats, Kansas City Chiefs, and Royals. When he wasn't busy with sports you would find him outdoors hunting and fishing. He enjoyed seeing his family, especially to celebrate the 4th of July.

Sam never knew a stranger. This translated well into his career as a sales representative; most of his working years were spent with the trucking line of USF Dugan in Salina. In public, it was a common occurrence for him to strike up conversation with individuals whether it was an old acquaintance or just someone willing to talk in order to pass the time.

He took great pride in the accomplishments of his children and was always eager to boast of their successes. He made it clear that he wanted his children to enjoy a better life than his and worked hard to make that happen.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Lorna Owens of Chapman. He is survived by his wife, Kimberlee of the home, sons Justin Owens (Jessica), Kyle Owens (Rachel), daughter Samantha Orr (Tim), father Jack Owens, brother Dennis Owens (Kathy), and sisters Sally Sowell and Lori Gilmore (Jay). He also leaves behind 5 granddaughters, 1 grandson, and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday November 8th located at Rosie's On Iron, 125 E Iron Ave. Salina, KS. We are planning a fun casual come and go event between 4-8pm. We will have heavy hors d'oeuvres and drinks. We look forward to friends and family joining us in celebrating the life of Sam Owens.

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