Duane Ellsworth Owens

June 7, 1924 ~ January 28, 2019
Duane was born at home in Show Low, AZ on June 7, 1924. He was the fifth child of 12 children born to Almon and Alta Owens.
Growing up farming and ranching taught Duane the value of hard work. He loved working and having a sense of accomplishment. Duane took pride in contributing and helping in any way he could to family and others.
Duane was proud to serve his county in World War II, serving his time in the U.S. Army in the Pacific Theater.
After the war, his good and lifelong friends took him to BYU. While there he earned a degree in English and Education.
He married Doris McIntire on December 20, 1948 in the Mesa Arizona Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
His first teaching job was in Monticello. He made lasting memories and lifelong friends there.
In 1953, they moved to Ojai, CA where Duane taught English. Three years later he became principal of Matilija Junior High School and then Nordhoff High School. He retired in 1982.
The day after he retired, he flew to Alaska and spent a year building a two-story log cabin on his son’s 20 acres.
After that, he and Doris spent eight years living on Santa Cruz Island helping his son Jaret run his recreation and hunting business. Thousands of people enjoyed the island because of their warm and friendly hospitality.
Duane served in many capacities in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Bishop. His love was always serving, teaching, and sharing his life experiences. He was an inspiration to all who knew him.
He loved the outdoors, camping, hunting, and fishing. He especially loved hunting with is sons in Alaska where he made numerous memorable trips.
No one was a stranger to Duane. His strong handshake often surprised people even at the age of 94. He always had a desire to be useful and to help others. His life was one of service, strength and faithfulness. He made friends easily with everyone.
He is preceded in death by Doris, his wife of 70 years, and daughters, Jenell Brubaker and Annette.
He is survived by his children, Jaret of Ojai, Brian of Homer, AK and Linda Owens, of Tucson, AZ; 15 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and his sister, Lapriel Gillespie of Taylor, AZ.
Funeral services were held February 9, 2019 in Ojai. Burial at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park in Ventura.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, in Ventura. Condolences may be sent to TedMayrFuneralHome.com.