Skyler Raine Owen

Skyler Raine Owen, of Eldersburg, Maryland, born August 5, 2004, passed away at his home on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the age of 21. Skyler is survived by his mother Wen Ji and father Harold Owen; grandmothers Guo Nanguo and Bonnie Hailes; brother Newlyn; aunt and uncle Changrong Ji and Vladimir Degen; and cousins Vance and Fae Degen.

Skyler graduated Valedictorian of the 2022 class at Liberty High School, where he played saxophone in Jazz Band and other ensembles. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics from the University of Maryland, College Park, achieved a black belt in karate at Tristar Martial Arts Academy, and tutored mathematics at Carroll Community College. He volunteered with the Sykesville Freedom District Fire Department, he interned at Allegis Group during the summer, then worked at Mr. Tire and later AutoZone; he was connected to St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Curious and wholehearted, Skyler mastered speed cubing, loved family journeys that took him across continents, cherished the family cabin in West Virginia-tubing and kayaking in the Cacapon River-and enjoyed hiking Liberty Reservoir with friends; he often welcomed people for impromptu bonfires and was always ready to help. In 2024, he began formation to enter the Catholic Church at Saint Joseph in Eldersburg, attending OCIA after work and the Brotherhood of Saint Joseph; on October 28, 2025, he affirmed his desire to enter the Church and was warmly regarded for his thoughtful, kind presence.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 5:00–6:00 PM at Haight Funeral Home, 6416 Sykesville Rd, Eldersburg. A service celebrating Skyler's life will begin at 6:00 PM, where attendees are welcome to share personal stories and fond memories.

In lieu of flowers, loved ones are encouraged to support the fundraisers of the Sykesville Freedom District Fire Department.