Mr. John T. Owen

Mr. John T. Owen, age 71, of North Utica, passed away on Saturday, March 12, 2016 at the Presbyterian Home of Central NY with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on March 11, 1945, John was the son of the late Douglas J. and Sarah (Brady) Owen. He was a graduate of Utica Free Academy/Class of 1963. In 1964, he wed the former Gail Sweezey and to that union came the blessings of his three sons. A 30-year relationship, marked by their marriage on December 3, 1994 John married the former Diana Acquaviva; they were very compatible and shared their love in the daughter that completed their happiness. John worked as a machinist at Chicago Pneumatic for 34 years and was one of the last to leave the company as it closed. He continued to apply his powerful work ethic as a forklift operator at a local distribution center. John was a gentleman who was competitive and fair. He was an all-around sportsman. John loved running and ran 15 straight boilermaker road races. He was not only active on the pavement, paths, and parks, but he also put the pedal to the metal as a stock car racer at Utica Rome and Fonda Speedway. John enjoyed his collection of classic muscle cars, assembling models, and cherished his time with Jim Amado both attending the car shows, and at the Uptown Automotive Hobby Shop. John was witty, charming, and endowed with a diverse sense of humor. He was a nonjudgmental man favored with a great variety of friendships. John’s affection was in his guidance. He wanted his loved ones to know that their greatest goals lie within their grasp — in honoring their lives, their livelihoods, and their loves. John treated the women in his life with honor, especially his prized jewel Sarah. John is survived by his wife, Diana; his sons and daughters-in-law, John (BJ) and Leslie Owen of North Utica, Steven Owen of NY Mills, and Douglas and Kristin Owen of New Hartford; his daughter, Sarah Owen and Jordan Santiago; his grandchildren, Ashley and Mike Arcuri, and Alison Owen; Douglas, Jr., and Daniel Owen; and his sister, Anne Owen Mikalajunas of Lake Caroline, VA. His extended family includes his many special nieces and his nephews with whom he held a special relationship, Theresa and Douglas Crane, Mark Mikalajunas, Richard Sweezey, and Scott Riedman; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunt, Josephine Terzo; in-laws, Jessie and Robert Hanes, James and Dorothy Acquaviva, Mark Acquaviva, Sr., Barbara Acquaviva, and Pam and Dean Jones; his longtime friend, Nicky Colucci, and his friend in need, Jimmy Amado. He was predeceased by Frank J. “Butch” Acquaviva, Sr., Deputy Chief William F. Acquaviva, and Diane Sweezey Benoit. The family extends appreciation to all the staff of the Cedar, Elm, and Aspen Units at the Presbyterian Home who provided comforting surroundings and compassionate care for John and his family; Charles Griffin from the Office of the Aging for his great devotion; and Fr. Joe Salerno. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The family will remain until all visitors have been seen. In lieu of floral offerings, please consider a donation to the Presbyterian Home of Central NY; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. John’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 from the funeral home and 2:30 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where his Mass of Christian burial will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. John T. Owen

March 11, 1945 - March 12, 2016