Elwood, Nebraska

Byron Lee "Barney" Owens, age 68, of Elwood, Nebraska, passed away on Monday, May 11, 2009,  at the Elwood Care Center, after battling liver cancer.

Barney was born in Falls City, Nebraska on August 12, 1940 to Roland and Marie (Miller) Owens.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. Marks Lutheran Church.  He graduated from Verdon High School, Verdon, Nebraska in 1958, married Martha Fritz June 3, 1963, and received a degree from the University of Nebraska Lincoln in 1967.

They moved to Elwood in the fall of 1974, and he became the president of the Home Bank and started the Home Agency.  He continued to work in insurance and real estate throughout his life.  He was an active member of both the local Fire & Rescue Department and the local Lions Club for over 40 years.  This past year he served as Lions Club District Governor of District 38-L.  He was also very active in Elwood school affairs serving on the school board for 12 years, ten as president.  He also ran clock at football and basketball games and volunteered as a timer for track meets.  Barney loved to fly, water ski, and attend auctions.

He is survived by his wife, Martha Owens of Elwood, Nebraska

Daughters Shari & husband Monte Holl of Omaha, Nebraska;

                   Jill & husband Brady Johnson of Seward, Nebraska

         Sons: Michael & wife Stacy Owens of Omaha, Nebraska

                   Robb & wife Jennifer Owens of Papillion, Nebraska

    Brother: Jerry (Bev) Owens, Seward, NE,

    Brother-in-law: Leon (Kathy) Portrey

    Grandchildren: 8

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Mary Kay Portrey.

Condolences and personal reflections may be left at elwoodfuneralhome.com.

Memorial service will be Saturday, May 16, at 2 PM at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Elwood, Nebraska with Rev. Jeff Ernstmeyer, officiating.  Inurnment will be at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Verdon, Nebraska at a later date. Elwood Funeral Home of Elwood, Nebraska is in charge of the arrangements.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Lion's Club Campaign SightFirst, the Elwood Fire & Rescue Department, or the donor's choice. Please send to P.O. Box 96, Elwood, NE 68937.