Michael Francis Owens

RIP mike you will be missed

The first time I met Mike I thought "Man ,Thats a nice Genuinely kind person." Hearing of his passing broke my heart !!! May he rest peacefully. My prayers are with his family ....

I just learned of Mike's passing yesterday. I am so sorry for your loss. I was one of Mike's professors in the Speech Department at Wabash College. In fact, Mike and I began our Wabash journeys in the same year. If memory serves I had Mike in two classes. Mike was a kind soul, thoughtful and caring, with a good smile and sense of humor. When Mike was working at Wabash I went on an admissions trip with him to Fort Wayne--it was an excellent trip with good conversations about Wabash, sports, and life. I will miss him.

I am currently a senior at Wabash College. I went to Fort Wayne Northrop and Mike was my first contact that I had with Wabash. He had such a passion for it and spoke so highly of it that I had to visit. The last part of my senior year I was in constant contact with Mike. He took me out for dinner a few times and I remember coming to campus and he showed me around and showed me

I am currently a senior at Wabash College. I went to Fort Wayne Northrop and Mike was my first contact that I had with Wabash. He had such a passion for it and spoke so highly of it that I had to visit. The last part of my senior year I was in constant contact with Mike. He took me out for dinner a few times and I remember coming to campus and he showed me around and showed me what the college is all about. I ended up becoming a rhetoric major here at Mike's suggestion and that has lead me to where I am today. I am a week away from getting my diploma from this great college. As I look back on the past four years I have so much to be thankful for. I've met so many great people, made lifelong friends, and am on the path to the career of my dreams. Mike was the begining of that for me! I am so deeply sadened by his passing and my thoughts and prayers go out to you all! Wabash Always Fights!!!!

Mike was an incredibly special man. He had a true gift for putting anyone at ease within moments of meeting them. Bigcat, as I affectionately referred to him, was as genuine a human being as you could ever hope for, while remaining completely open-minded and accepting of all individuals...except for hoosier fans. He'd tell me the same stories over and over again, but it seemed like those stories just seemed to get better and better every time I heard them.

Mike was an incredibly special man. He had a true gift for putting anyone at ease within moments of meeting them. Bigcat, as I affectionately referred to him, was as genuine a human being as you could ever hope for, while remaining completely open-minded and accepting of all individuals...except for hoosier fans. He'd tell me the same stories over and over again, but it seemed like those stories just seemed to get better and better every time I heard them. A man who loved his family above everything else, and was extremely loyal to those lucky enough to be his friends. His grin and chuckle will be with me forever. He was the best.
My Deepest Condolences,
Adam Murray

Mike and I met when we both worked for the Ft. Wayne Fury. He was a college intern, and I was just finishing high school, awaiting my move to Ball State. I remember when we were both back at school he invitied me to a dance at Wabash. We had so much fun! We were connected from the beginning and had a bond that lasted throughout the years ahead. Even after college and I made my move to Indy, then

Mike and I met when we both worked for the Ft. Wayne Fury. He was a college intern, and I was just finishing high school, awaiting my move to Ball State. I remember when we were both back at school he invitied me to a dance at Wabash. We had so much fun! We were connected from the beginning and had a bond that lasted throughout the years ahead. Even after college and I made my move to Indy, then back to Ft. Wayne, Mike was always there...visiting and staying in touch like a good friend would. He was always supportive of me in anything I would do. I hope I was the same for him. He holds a special place in my heart...always has...always will. I give my condolences to his entire family. Meg was there with us in the early stage of our friendship. He always talked about Meg...all good things...he was so proud. He was so proud to be your twin. I am so happy to have met you, Meg. He was a family man. The last time he came to my condo in Ft. Wayne was when his parents were moving. He was there to help them. I wish I could have met them and the rest of his family. As I mourn his loss, I realize there are others who are hurting even more than I... Mike, you are an inspiration to all and the BEST friend anyone could ask for. May you rest in peace and meet us again when our times come...LOVE YOU! Brooke

We grieve fir the Owens family. It is hard to find the words to say during this tragic time, but when Mike became absent from the body, he became present with the Lord. Mike's family will be in our prayers for many days to come, and we will ask the Lord for healing within the Owens family.
God be with You all,

Doug and Stacy Fry

Tim and Libby,

We are saddened to hear of Mike's passing. It has been a long time and those pictures brought back memories of our visits many years ago. Maggie and I would like to offer our sympathies on behalf of all of the Hunckler's.

Paul Timothy Hunckler

Dear Tim, Libby and family,
May happy memories carry you through this sorrowful time. My heart aches for you. I am sorry for your loss.
Michelle Miller Hottman

Libby and Tim,
I am so sorry that I didn't get to visit with you at the funeral home. You have been in my thoughts and prayers. I have so many sweet memories of Michael at Forest Park School and fun times that you and I had with all the PTA events, board meetings and carnival! I would love to stay in touch with you - please email me or send me your address.
Love and prayers, Sue Michell

Its so hard to put into words when a friend is lost, and to add to the grief is the suddenness of the loss and the unknown reason for their passing. I don't think that anyone can ever share a story about Mike that is not a positive or comical one. He was such a nice and genuine person to everyone he met. Its hard to choose one specific memory to share, and I know that the NS family has

Its so hard to put into words when a friend is lost, and to add to the grief is the suddenness of the loss and the unknown reason for their passing. I don't think that anyone can ever share a story about Mike that is not a positive or comical one. He was such a nice and genuine person to everyone he met. Its hard to choose one specific memory to share, and I know that the NS family has many to share of such an outstanding Redskin. I just hope that all his family and friends can take comfort in how many lives Mike touched and the mark he left not only on his friends but his community. He was taken from us all way too early - but I know that his memory will live on in each and every one of us. RIP Mike, we will miss you dearly.

Dear Owens Family. When I met Mike I was immediately attracted to his outgoing personality and infectious smile. As I'm sure was the case for all who knew him. He was a wonderful and genuinely kind and loving person. When I met you all, his family I could see why. I will miss him dearly.

Dear Tim and Libby,
We were so saddened to hear of Mike's death. Our sympathy and prayers are with you. Joel told us that Mike had passed away. We all have such fun memories of him and the good time our boys had with him, especially Joel. May God give you peace and comfort as you draw near to Him.
Harry and Lynnette Hyde

Dear Libby and Tim and family,
I am sorry to hear about your loss and my thoughts and
Prayers are with you.
I seem to recall that I did some babysitting of Mike
a long time ago!
Would love to get in touch with you.
My phone number is 260.243.0193 and
My email is rnlake7@gmail.com
God bless,
Joni

Getting to know Mike my senior year at Wabash was definitly one of the highlights. Having a person who was a legend from his days there was inspiring. I miss you Mike. IHSV!

Mike Owens played a key role in me matriculating at Wabash. I met him during my junior year of high school when he visited as an admissions counselor for the school. From there I maintained correspondence with him. Thanks to his candidness about Wabash, I am Little Giant with great pride.

Thank you Mike for helping me make one of the best decisions of my life.

Charles Hintz
Wabash College 2013

Tim, Libby, Meg, Mandy and Bill,

For someone who did not know Mike well, the memories and pictures being shared by those who loved him tell the story of a incredible person who made a true impact in the lives of those fortunate enough to have known him. Our hearts go out to you all.

Love, Tina, Matt, Emma and Cal

To Mike Owens #34 with the big heart, great sense of humor and silky smooth jump shot you will be missed. We will continue to share your memory when we get together by reminiscing about the times we shared with together! I still remember the night I took my wife on our second date to Leodis's house for cards. It was quite the second date but she loved your sense of humor so much that she told me later that

To Mike Owens #34 with the big heart, great sense of humor and silky smooth jump shot you will be missed. We will continue to share your memory when we get together by reminiscing about the times we shared with together! I still remember the night I took my wife on our second date to Leodis's house for cards. It was quite the second date but she loved your sense of humor so much that she told me later that night it's the best date she had ever been on. It didn't hurt that you both destroyed Leo and I in spades. You will be missed my friend. Prayers going out to the Owens family and friends.

I knew Owens well through our years at Wabash and I don't have memories of him other than those with a smile on his face and enjoying himself and his Wabash brothers. From the first time we met I knew he was a great guy and he was always comfortable in whatever situation he was presented. My condolences to your family, and from the the memories submitted from all over the world, it is easily seen what an impact this great man had on the lives he touched.

Michael

Tim, Libby, Man, Magel Bagel, and Bill,
I can't begin to tell you how sorry I am to hear about Mike. I'm so lucky to have been able to call this spectacular man my best friend for so many years. We had a unique and special relationship that I'll cherish forever...along with the fun times we spent together and all our glorious memories. Through all the tears, a smile or giggle sneaks in when remembering my dear friend because he could

Tim, Libby, Man, Magel Bagel, and Bill,
I can't begin to tell you how sorry I am to hear about Mike. I'm so lucky to have been able to call this spectacular man my best friend for so many years. We had a unique and special relationship that I'll cherish forever...along with the fun times we spent together and all our glorious memories. Through all the tears, a smile or giggle sneaks in when remembering my dear friend because he could always make us laugh with a dance or song or his fun-loving spirit. I know you are hurting and we'll all miss Mikey more than words can express. Please know that I'm always here for you the way Mike was always here for me. He was the most helpful, loving and caring family man who will truly be missed! Over all our time spent together, one thing was clear, he loved you, his family, more than anything! I love you so much and will always consider you family. "Good Times...good people!" Much love, Molly

I really got to know Mike during the eleven days we traveled together around Australia last year. He was a great guy, very warm and engaging. He would often slip in funny comments when I wouldn't be expecting it. His deadpan deliver made them even more funny.

He asked me to keep encouraging him to stop smoking. I know it is something he struggled with for a while and was so proud of him to hear he finally quit last year.

I will definitely miss seeing him around the office.

From the moment I met Mike it was laughter all the time in his conversations in person and in his text (he won a Oscar's for the Best Texter in the world lol) I use to tell him Mike call me sometimes I'm old-school. I will never forget you Mike Owens you was a loving, caring man, and a good friend. Que la paz de Dios simpre este contigo. Ruthie

Everyone here in the IFSA London office are truly shocked and saddened by Mike's passing. We have all worked with Mike and knew him to be a dedicated, friendly and popular member of staff. It is such a shame Mike never came to visit us here in London, our thoughts go out to Mike's family and friends.

I came to meet Mike, through his father Tim, who is a business associate of my cousin Tim Gouloff. It was always nice to see Mike for those Memorial Day weekend events at The Indy 500 because he was always a team player, very dependable and quite reliable, every time. God Bless, and I'll see you again.

Tim, Libby,meg and Mandy,
I am so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I have such great memories of all of you at lake George and watching him fish. May God grant you comfort during this difficult time.

Mike Owens was in my 5th grade class at Forest Park. I had my first crush on him. I admired his blonde mullet( with lines shaved in the sides), and his neat block handwriting. I am sentimental and keep everything, so when I saw Michael's obituary, I went into my attic and found some old notes he wrote to me around 1991. I had complimented his handwriting, and he wrote back, " I started practicing my writing because my dad

Mike Owens was in my 5th grade class at Forest Park. I had my first crush on him. I admired his blonde mullet( with lines shaved in the sides), and his neat block handwriting. I am sentimental and keep everything, so when I saw Michael's obituary, I went into my attic and found some old notes he wrote to me around 1991. I had complimented his handwriting, and he wrote back, " I started practicing my writing because my dad writes like that and I liked how he writes. Keep practicing, your doing good. Well gotta go" -Mike

I'm very sorry for your loss.

I have nothing but fond memories of Mike. I was sad and shocked to hear of his passing. We are Wabash Brothers, and we both are proud natives of Fort Wayne, IN. I thank God that I knew him, and my thoughts and prayers are with the Owens Family. We love you, Mike! Wabash Always Fights! God Bless You!

Dear Mike’s Family

We were so saddened to hear of Mike’s passing. We know what a tremendous impact Mike had on the lives of so many. Our Australian team worked with Mike and couldn’t ask for a more dedicated, professional and wonderful person to work with. He truly went above and beyond in his work and built relationships with our staff and the universities he worked with in the process. It was wonderful having him visit us in Australia last

Dear Mike’s Family

We were so saddened to hear of Mike’s passing. We know what a tremendous impact Mike had on the lives of so many. Our Australian team worked with Mike and couldn’t ask for a more dedicated, professional and wonderful person to work with. He truly went above and beyond in his work and built relationships with our staff and the universities he worked with in the process. It was wonderful having him visit us in Australia last year. All of the universities he worked with here have asked me to also pass along their condolences and heart felt sympathy. He will be deeply missed. My heart goes out to all of you.

From Christi Hoover and all the Australian IFSA Butler team

No one would doubt that Mike is one of the most loving, thoughtful, and sincere individuals on the planet. But he is also someone who made true love possible. In 2004 at a Wabash event, Mike introduced me, his colleague at the Indiana Academy, to his fraternity brother, David Rogers. Five years later, this introduction lead to the start of a wonderful marriage. We are forever indebted to Mike for helping us find one another and for being an unwavering,

No one would doubt that Mike is one of the most loving, thoughtful, and sincere individuals on the planet. But he is also someone who made true love possible. In 2004 at a Wabash event, Mike introduced me, his colleague at the Indiana Academy, to his fraternity brother, David Rogers. Five years later, this introduction lead to the start of a wonderful marriage. We are forever indebted to Mike for helping us find one another and for being an unwavering, fun-loving, and heart-warming friend, fraternity brother, colleague, and model soul. Mike, you are in our hearts always! Thank you Tim, Libby, Mandy, and Meg for raising such a phenomenal man. We send our most sincere condolences.

Libby, Tim, Mandy, & Meg,

Words cannot express how sad G & I were to hear about Mike. Our hearts ache for your loss. I will always remember him as that toe-headed little boy with the cute impish grin. Please accept our deepest sympathy and our prayers.

Pam & Garry Schaaf

Libby Im so sorry for you and your familys loss.
I never knew Mike but by reading all the things every one said about him he was a wonderful man. Wish I would have known him. He will be missed by so many people he touched and never be forgotten.
Sending love and hugs to all of you. God be with you.

Pam (Poe) Rash

Dear Owens Family-

I was in disbelief when I learned of Mike's death. I worked for Tim many moons ago and my younger siblings grew up with the Owens kids. We spent a lot of time with them as they lived close to us in Forest Park. Many years passed until I reconnected with Mike through Facebook. He was as I remembered, a sweet kid, just a bigger version. It definitely shines through in all of the memories shared here. I

Dear Owens Family-

I was in disbelief when I learned of Mike's death. I worked for Tim many moons ago and my younger siblings grew up with the Owens kids. We spent a lot of time with them as they lived close to us in Forest Park. Many years passed until I reconnected with Mike through Facebook. He was as I remembered, a sweet kid, just a bigger version. It definitely shines through in all of the memories shared here. I always enjoyed reading his posts on Facebook and was particularly inspired with one of his most current,‎"I don't object to the concept of a deity, but I'm baffled by the notion of one that takes attendance.." -Amy, The Big Bang Theory. I know you have a spot.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Owens during this time. If there is anything that we can do to help please do not hesitate to contact us.

Love-

Matt Hartzog

The pictures are so telling of the love in your family. I am so sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Janet

Tim , Libby, Mandy and Meg

Thank you for sharing a little about Mike's life story and your favorite memories . He has touch so many lives in such a short time and his hard work and inspiration will not be forgotten. His life and memory will live on in those he has helped.

We appreciate your confidence in the McComb family and staff and the opportunity to serve you and honor your son and brother.

Sincerely
Michael Murphy Mgr

Living next door to Mike and working with him was a great blessing to me while I was in Indianapolis. Mike always went out of his way to be generous to myself and the rest of our neighbors never expecting anything in return. I literally needed a cup of sugar one time and Mike just laughed and gave me a cup letting me know to just ask if I needed more. That was just the type of man he was.

Living next door to Mike and working with him was a great blessing to me while I was in Indianapolis. Mike always went out of his way to be generous to myself and the rest of our neighbors never expecting anything in return. I literally needed a cup of sugar one time and Mike just laughed and gave me a cup letting me know to just ask if I needed more. That was just the type of man he was. We spent a lot of time grilling out on the porch and talking about life and I will remember the times we had together fondly. I'm going to miss having him around.

Dear Tim and Lib.....I was shocked , to hear of Mike's passing.....I can't even imagine how much grief the two of you share.......Please accept my deepest sympathy.

Michael and I were colleagues at IFSA-Butler. He was always kind, thoughtful and hardworking. He knew his stuff. I'll miss working with Mike.

Rhonda

We were all shocked and saddened upon learning of Mike's passing. He was an exceptional young man and will be missed by those who worked with him and considered him their friend. There is nothing to prepare you for the loss of a loved one. The whole left in your heart is painful and palpable. We all wished Mike's journey had lasted much longer, but the impact he made in this life can be measured by the love of his

We were all shocked and saddened upon learning of Mike's passing. He was an exceptional young man and will be missed by those who worked with him and considered him their friend. There is nothing to prepare you for the loss of a loved one. The whole left in your heart is painful and palpable. We all wished Mike's journey had lasted much longer, but the impact he made in this life can be measured by the love of his family, the wonderful memories of his friends, the devotion of his co-workers, and the students' lives that were touched by his kindness. One short solitary life can be a blessing to many and make an extraordinary difference. May God comfort your family and friends in their grief, and may you find peace that passes understanding in the arms of a loving God.

To Mike's Family: Everyone at the Institute for Study Abroad is so shocked and saddened at losing Mike as a co-worker and friend. My heart goes out to you as you find your way through this very difficult time. It meant a lot that you took the time to visit our office this week to meet everyone he worked with on a daily basis. Mike was a special person who was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

I am truly shocked and saddened by Mike's passing. I will forever remember the conversations and laughter we had over the years. His heart was true and passionate. To the family, please know Mike was loved by many and in his time here with us left a lasting legacy.

God Bless

My heart has been heavy ever since hearing the news of Mike's passing. He would stop by my desk with a "good morning" and a smile. He was loved by everyone he came into contact with, and will be missed greatly. Mike made an impact on the world with his work and his personality. Keeping you all in my prayers - Mary

I had the privilege of being Mike's uncle and watching him grow up, such a great kid, I was always proud of him. Mike's life is not over it is just begining, he left his material body here and moved on to better things, I will miss him but in a few years I will be able to give him a hug and talk about old times, see ya then Mike. Uncle Chuck

I'm so sadden by this. There wasn't one person who didn't love being around Mike. Mike was one of those people who just made everyone feel right at home...if you knew him for years or minutes. I'm so glad to have called Mike my friend. The world is a little darker now that Mike's fun spirit is gone. Rest in peace Michael Francis Owen. I'm going to miss my friend.

I went to school with Mike. He always had a huge smile on his face and was always in great spirits every time I saw him. He will be greatly missed! My thoughts and prayers will always be with his family.

I had the pleasure of working with Mike at the Indiana Academy. He is one of the sweetest and most compassionate people I have encountered. He made a huge impact on the students with whom he worked and also provided encouragement and understanding to his co-workers. Mike, you may not be here with us any longer, but you will always be in our hearts.

My father passed away just over a year ago and this was the conversation Mike and I had on facebook - just really shows what a kind and caring person he was.

Mike:
hey
I'm so sorry about your father's passing. I can't imagine. My fondest memories are of our friends back in the day on Florida Drive, and I remember your pop and seeing him at Tom's Donuts when I use to go with my dad. Just know there are strong arms

My father passed away just over a year ago and this was the conversation Mike and I had on facebook - just really shows what a kind and caring person he was.

Mike:
hey
I'm so sorry about your father's passing. I can't imagine. My fondest memories are of our friends back in the day on Florida Drive, and I remember your pop and seeing him at Tom's Donuts when I use to go with my dad. Just know there are strong arms and friends around you during these hard times.
Best,
Mike

Me:
Thank you so much. I know that you understand how much a father's love can mean. This is horrible, but I know he would want us to be strong. I'm trying my hardest. Thank you for the kind words.

Mike:
I do. And as much as we know times like these will come it's nothing we want to think about and there's nothing that can prepare for it. Mom is thinking of you as well she's not on facebook but wanted to talk to you. We're here if you need us.

Me:
I am grateful. Please send my love to your parents.

Mike:
I will do that..our love to you as well.

..

Mike was a true gem as a NSHS student. He was in my Health class sophomore year. Always a sense of humor, very intelligent and well behaved. Delightful to be around. So sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Dee Herman

Uncle Tim, Aunt Lib, Mandy & Meg-
I can't begin to tell you the shock and disbelief I have at hearing the news. So very sorry! Your pain is unimaginable. Words can not express my sorrow!God Bless all of you and may you find comfort!
Shannon

Mike, we met one time and I remember you were so friendly and genuine. You and my son, Jarrod, were such good friends and I would always ask him how you were and if he had seen you lately. Thanks again for loaning me the book, I read it and I enjoyed it. I liked it so much, I finally bought my own copy. My son will miss you and I will miss you. The angels are waiting for you. Good-bye, Mike.

Sandra Dortch

I was very saddened to hear of our family's loss. May the angels be with you.

Tim and Libby,

I will always remember what a sweet, polite young man Mike was. My heart is heavy with sadness as you are going through this difficult time. May God give you the strength and the peace that surpasses all human understanding as you celebrate the memories and love of Mike. God's peace be with you all. My prayers are with you.

Oh, Libby, Tim and girls -- we were so saddened to hear the news of Mike's sudden passing. We are lifting you up in our prayers and send much love to you and to all of Mike's friends at this very difficult time.

I was a classmate of Mike and Meg's I am so sorry for the pain you are all feeling and pray for God's peace to find you.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal".

I have such fond memories of Mike, both as my student at Wabash College and later as a staff member in admissions. I saw Mike work hard to master Spanish and celebrated with him when he was selected to study abroad. I will miss him; his good humor, patient demeanor, and kind heart.

I met Mike during my time at the Indiana Academy and loved every minute of being his friend! Mike was one of the most positive, easy-going people I have had the privilege of knowing. I believe that his compassion and love for others will continue to positively impact those who knew him and in turn, those who never had the honor. Mike lived a life worth celebrating and I am confident that is exactly what he'd want each of us to do! Rest in peace, friend.

My heart goes out to the entire Owens family...

Letter from Heaven

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say
But first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's not more tears of sadness; Here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I am with you every morning, noon, and night.
That day I had to leave you when my

My heart goes out to the entire Owens family...

Letter from Heaven

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say
But first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's not more tears of sadness; Here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I am with you every morning, noon, and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through.
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you.

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly, you're part of my plan.
There's so much that I have to do, to help our mortal man"

God gave me a list of things that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you . . . in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years.
Because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry: it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
If I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is over,
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
But together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too;
That as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain;
Then you can say to God at night . . . "My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented . . . that my life was worthwhile.
Knowing as I passed along the way I made somebody smile.

So, if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low;
Just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go . . . from that body to be free.
Remember you're not going . . . you're coming here to me.

I worked with Mike at the Indiana Academy. He helped with summer orientation programs each year and I loved those times. He was funny, kind, and great at helping the students engage and feel comfortable. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you!

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.