Donald Owens

Donald Don Joseph Owens, age 81, of Mankato and formerly of Forreston, died Sunday, May 8, 2005 at Laurels Edge Assisted Living in Mankato.

Mass of Christian Burial 1:30 p.m., Thursday, May 12, 2005 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Mankato, with Rev. Richard Colletti officiating. Burial in Calvary Cemetery, Mankato. Visitation 4-7 p.m. Wednesday at Mankato Mortuary and continues one hour before services at church on Thursday.

Donald was born May 8, 1924 to Joseph H. and Myrtle (Davis) Owens in Judson Township, Blue Earth County. He attended Four Corners School in Judson Township. He married Catherine Jones on May 13, 1944 at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Mankato. Catherine died September 27, 1985. He married Geraldine Miller Rueckert on June 16, 1990 at Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran Church in Foley. Geraldine died September 25, 2001. Don worked as a truck driver for various companies including Hubbard Milling before he owned and operated Owens Transport. He was a former member of the Eagles and Moose Lodge of Mankato and the Lake Crystal Saddle Club. Don enjoyed raising horses and showing them in parades and other events. Dons other hobbies were going to auctions and trips to different casinos.

Don is survived by two sons, Vern (Karen) Owens of Medford, Larry (Cheryl) Owens of Mapleton; daughter, Donna (Rod) Church of Cass Lake; stepson, Correy (Pat) Rueckert of Foley; six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; five step grandchildren; one step great-grandchild; two brothers, Raymond Owens, Glen Owens of rural Lake Crystal; two sisters, Edna Owens of rural Lake Crystal, JoAnn (Oryle) Davis of Medford; sister-in-law, Helen Owens of rural Lake Crystal; nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; both wives; and two brothers, Robert and Lee.