James M. Owen

James M. Owen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, at the age of 84.

Born on October 13, 1941, James was the son of the late Hugh and Jill Owen (née Pulker).

James is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Carole Owen (née Macdonald); his sister, Pat Pal and her husband, Jack; and many beloved family members and friends.

He was the father of Shelley Sheldon (Kevin), David Owen (Rose), Karen Conradt, and Kirsten Gustafson (Steve), predeceased by his children, Scott Owen and Tanya Schaeffer. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

A skilled craftsman by trade and proud member of Local 46, James took great pride in his work and the relationships he built throughout his career. Outside of work, he embraced life with enthusiasm—an avid skier who looked forward to winter adventures on the slopes and a passionate sailor who took great pride in his sailboat and time spent on the Great Lakes. Together, James and Carole shared a love of travel and created countless memories exploring new places throughout their many years together.

In keeping with his generous spirit, James's brain has been donated to Alzheimer's disease research in the hope that future generations may benefit from a better understanding of this devastating disease and, ultimately, a cure. His remains will be laid to rest at White Haven Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in James’s memory to the University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC): https://www.adrc.pitt.edu/volunteer/donate/

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 12–2 p.m. at Holt Lodge in Webster Park. The gathering is being coordinated by his granddaughter, Kayla Salerno, and has been scheduled for the weekend prior to what would have been James’s 85th birthday to allow family and friends traveling from out of town the opportunity to attend. Additional details will be shared as they become available.