Oliver H. Owens

Was born August 15, 1926 in Elmira, NY the son of the late William Arthur and Frances (Scott) Owens, went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, May 6, 2007 peacefully at the Bethany Manor in Horseheads, NY at age of 80. Pete, as many affectionately knew him, was predeceased by his first wife, Cora Mae Austin, his second wife, Irene Whitemore and sister, Alma Cody. He is survived by his loving children: loving and best buddy, son and daughter-in-law, William E. and Cathy Owens of Elmira Heights, NY; daughter and son-in-law, Deonne and Richard Schwartz of Wellsley, MA; step-daughters, Diane Gobrick and Darlene Austin; granddaughters, Stephanie Owens, Crystal (Mike) Marley; grandson, J. D. Schwartz; along with 3 nieces, many step-grandsons, step-granddaughters and great grandchildren. Pete was a Veteran of the US Army and proudly served his country during WW II. He was a member of the American Legion BentleyTrumble Post # 442 and the Moose Club Lodge # 1476 both in Horseheads, the Fassett Grange and the Gillett Baptist Church. His employment included: Thatcher Glass, Hardinge Brothers, Sodius Point Shipyard, Howard Express, Pennsylvania Railroad and a mechanic at Elm Chevrolet. He owned the following businesses: Owens Gas Station, Owens Rancho and several rental properties. Pete was an accomplished musician playing the guitar, piano, harmonicas and the bass guitar. He loved playing music especially with his son. He also enjoyed woodworking and writing poetry. A gathering of family and friends will take place to honor Petes life on Wednesday, May 9, 2007 from 4:00 to 5:00 PM at the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Ave. Elmira, NY 14904. The Reverends Edward Crandall and Gary Mammerello will celebrate a Memorial Service following the visitation at 5:00 PM. Interment will take place in the Gillett Cemetery on Thursday, May 10, 2007 at 11:00 AM where the Chemung County Veterans Honor Squad will accord Mr. Owens full Military Honors. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be directed to the Elmira Weslyan Church, 1100 South Main Street, Elmira, NY 14904. A Candle of Remembrance may be left for his family in obituaries at www.olthof.com