Kevin Paul Owen

Kevin Paul Owen, born in Anchorage, Alaska on the 17th of January, 1961 to Peggy Eathel and Lloyd V. Owen, passed away on December the 28th, 2024 at his home in North Salt Lake, Utah.

Kevin was the definition of a Renaissance man. The range of subjects and skills over which he had mastery was vast - the expression “jack of all trades, master of none” simply did not apply to him. To those fortunate enough to populate his universe, he was a larger-than-life source of inspiration. They perhaps had the unforgettable experience of a sushi dinner worthy of a Michelin star or were guided by his expert hand as he cast a hand-tied fly into the water of an Alaskan river or shared the joy of first tracks down a pristine slope with him as their trusted guide. They might have enjoyed a flight with him in a Cessna, or seen him throw a pot or plate with artistry and skill. He could knit up a Fair Isle sweater without a pattern, build an heirloom quality cabinet or a four-poster bed worthy of a high-end furniture shop, and cultivate a garden that could easily have graced the pages of House & Garden.

His talents were matched only by his generous spirit in sharing them. Kevin was a teacher and mentor at heart, and nothing delighted him more than sharing his knowledge with his loved ones: Missionary, Ski instructor, Primary Teacher, Entrepreneur, Flight instructor, Developer and General Contractor, Denture Maker, Marquee Wizard, and, somehow, the proud recipient of an Honorary PhD in Japan.

After completing high school in Anchorage, Alaska, Kevin pursued his education at BYU. He served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Zurich Switzerland Mission. His faith and committed service to others remained cornerstones of his life - he loved the gospel of Jesus Christ, and led a faithful life.

Kevin shared a particularly close bond with his older brother Terry, who was his lifelong best friend. Their wit, shared sense of humor, and camaraderie made them a legendary duo, and their good-natured pranks have become cherished family lore. Tales of their mischievous adventures are invariably recollected at family gatherings, to general hilarity and amazement.

On March 3, 1994, Kevin married the love of his life, June Nyman. Their marriage was one of unwavering affection and mutual devotion, growing stronger through every shared triumph and through every hardship. Together, they built a life filled with travel, beauty, and art. Though they did not have children of their own, Kevin and June embraced their roles as aunt and uncle extraordinaire. The deep and lasting bonds they nurtured with each of their nieces and nephews will endure as one of their greatest legacies. Kevin was the kind of uncle every kid dreams of - hilarious, wise, and generous in every way.

Life presented Kevin with its share of challenges. In his early thirties, a fateful ski accident would mark the beginning of a lifelong struggle with chronic pain - a cruel irony for the impressive athlete and great ski lover that he was. Later, June’s passing in 2018 left Kevin profoundly bereft. Her absence marked a turning point in Kevin’s existence, leaving a void that he carried for the rest of his life. His faith was the well from which he drew the strength and grace to face a life full of hardships.

He is survived by his loving mother Peggy, his four siblings Rick (Virginia), Chaille (Randy), Stacy (Sébastien) and Melanie (Paul), as well as a multitude of nieces and nephews who adored him. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, June; his father, Lloyd; and his brother, Terry.

While we are devastated by his passing, we take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with June, Terry, and Lloyd, at peace and whole once more.

In accordance with Kevin’s wishes, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, please reach out to a friend you haven’t seen in a while for a chat or lunch.

If inclined, please share a memory of Kevin with his family in the comments below, or send an email to chaillemh@msn.com.