Thomas Owens

On Sunday evening, October 16, 2011, Thomas Owens, 94, of Bozeman (previously of Billings) left his earthly body behind and went to be with his Lord and Savior after suffering a stroke. Tom was born in Carlyle, Montana on May 9, 1917 to Reese and Gen Owens. His life here was full and diverse. He had a varying career in the automotive field ranging from owning a gas station to being a manufacturer#8217;s representative, as well as owning an auto parts store. Tom was a Navy veteran who served in World War II and the Korean Conflict. Tom married Lila Nelson on October 5, 1946 in Glendive, Montana. Tom was an avid golfer and bowler. He very much enjoyed the Exchange City Par 3 golf course in Billings and played his final few rounds this summer. He was recently interviewed by the Billings Gazette for a story featuring him as the oldest male bowler in his league. Tom was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Harold, Gomer, and Hayden. Tom is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lila (Nelson); daughters Jonnie (Jim) Marshall of Bozeman, Jennifer Menk of Bozeman, Julie (Steve) Bobzien of Alberta, and Judy Thompson of Glendive; sons Scott (Candi) Owens of Smithville, Tennessee and Todd Owens of Bozeman; sister Jane Mende of Oceanside, California; brother Bob Owens of Kalispell; 14 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of Tom#8217;s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 21, 2011 at the Emmanuel Baptist Church in Billings, 328 S. Shiloh Rd. Memorials may be made in Tom#8217;s name to a charity of your choice.