Jack Owen

Jack Owen, 67, of Middletown, IL passed away on October 17, 2024 in his home surrounded by family.
Jack was born on March 29, 1957, in Lafayette, IN., the son of George Owen and Mary (Hewitt) Owen.
Jack’s talents were as numerous as they were diverse. You may say he was a “Jack of all trades.” After graduating from the University of Missouri with a degree in Agriculture Mechanization, he started working in the oil drilling fields located in Kansas and New York. It was during this time that he met his wife, Reatha (Gates) Owen and were married shortly after. While living in Pennsylvania, Jack volunteered at the local fire department, became a paramedic, and started his career in the medical field with a nursing degree from the University of Pittsburgh. His firm understanding of engines and the human body led him to a successful career as a critical care and emergency nurse. When not caring for patients, he built racing engines and enjoyed Friday’s nights under the lights of Farmer City Raceway. While bedside nursing exemplified his compassion, his career as an educator is where he truly excelled. He taught life-saving skills to soldiers in the U.S. Army, hundreds of flight paramedics and nurses at Air Evac Lifeteam, and nursing students at the Capital Area School of Practical Nursing. He constantly declared that his priorities were, and would always be, God, family, and his crews.
The story of Jack’s life would be incomplete without mentioning his passion for hockey. The ice ring was where you could see his smile shine most. Whether attempting to score a goal or pestering an opponent, his love for hockey stemmed 50 years and his passion never wavered.
While Jack embarks on his heavenly journey, left behind are his wife, Reatha, of 40 years. His daughter, Jessica, who is more and more like him with each and every single day, and his son, Jeff, who continues Jack’s love for machines and aviation. Other survivors include his daughter-in-law, Maggie, son-in-law, Jonathon, grandchildren Brooks and Eleanor (Serafini), Jennifer Cole (Roger), Jay Owen (Linda), and his mother Mary Owen; several nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive. He was preceded in death by his father, George Owen. A private service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, monetary donations are being accepted to assist in initiating tuition assistance programs for both nursing and aviation at Lincoln Land Community College or Capital Area School of Practical Nursing. Holland Barry & Bennett Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.