Owen was born on May 28, 1940, in Au Gres, Michigan, a son of Raymond and Delores (Girarden) Willett. He graduated from Au Gres High School in 1958 and went on to earn his associate degree from Bay City Junior College. On October 6, 1962, Owen was united in marriage to Nancy Sue Molnar in Au Gres, MI.
Owen’s career led him down the path of food retail where he worked as a manager for the Kroger company for many years. He enjoyed being out on the water sailing, photography and playing a competitive game of Euchre. Owen shared many good memories deer hunting with his brothers and being a talented baker with scones and cookies being his favorite. His easy-going personality and friendly disposition made him well known and remembered. Owen was an active member and served as a deacon at St. John’s Lutheran Church. He was also involved in The Gideons International where he shared his faith with others in the area.
In addition to his loving wife of 63 years, Nancy, Owen will be missed by their children, Jill (Mark) Lenz and Dale (Dawn) Willett; grandchildren, Alec, Grace, Kyrie, Cammie and Casey; great-grandchildren, Levi, Reese, Ellis and Owen; and his siblings, Garth (Joan) Willett and Penny (Dave) Rule. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Ennis, Rolland and Ken.
A memorial service for Owen will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at St. John’s Lutheran Church with Pastor Joel Sarrault officiating. A gathering will be held in the church for one hour prior to the memorial service.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagley Funeral Home, Adrian, where online condolences and memories may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHomes.com.
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