Obituary: Robert J. Owens, Sr.

Robert J. Owens Sr., 76, a resident of Easton for the past 28 years, died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at Life Care Center of West Bridgewater.

He was the husband of Carol A. (Young) Owens. Born Jan. 23, 1937, a son of the late James W. and Violet F. (Watterson) Owens. He was born and raised in Brookline and at the early age of 17 with little education, money or opportunities, he served his country by joining the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Upon honorable discharge from the military in 1957, he began working as a truck driver and was a member of the Teamster Local 25 of Charlestown for 39 years, retiring in 1996.

Unable to stay idle in his retirement years, Robert took a position as a custodian and was employed by the Pembroke Public Schools, retiring in 2006 after ten years of service.

His family described Robert as a hard-working, tough, and private man who placed his family first. With a strong work ethic, he wanted to provide his family with opportunities that were never available to him. He put three children through college who have gone on to all succeed in their professions and personal lives. His family viewed him as a true, working class hero.

In addition to his wife Carol,  to whom he was married for nearly a half a century, leaves his children Lisa M. Farrell of Easton, Robert Jr. of Norton, and James E. and his wife Meredith of Franklin; his siblings, Dorothy Ward of Chatham and Kenneth of Brookline; longtime family friend Lori Grillo and her children Jamie and Merritt; and seven grandchildren, Jaymes, Samantha, Elijah, Christian, Jonathan, Cole, and Mason.

Funeral services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert's memory may be sent to the , 5 Manley Street, West Bridgewater, MA 02379. Arrangements are by Kane Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 605 Washington Street (Rte. 138) Easton. For condolences visit www.kanefuneralhome.com.