Dennis Robert Owens

Dennis Robert Owens passed away on December 7, 2025 in Lufkin, Texas, concluding a courageous two year battle with cancer.

Born on July 24, 1954, in Traverse City, Michigan, to Katherine Hughes and Felix “Shorty” Owens, Dennis moved with his family to Vero Beach, Florida shortly after. Later in life, he relocated to Lufkin, Texas, where he lovingly cared for his mother and father-in-law.

Dennis was a devoted husband of 46 years to the love of his life, partner in crime, and best friend, Penny Sue Hicks Owens. Together they raised three children: Caren, Dustin, and Crystal.

Dennis was a lover of live music, an avid surfer, and one hell of a fisherman. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand. Guided by a strong moral compass, he was known for his integrity and his unwavering commitment to doing what was right. A master carpenter, Dennis poured pride and craftsmanship into every project he touched. As a father, he was endlessly devoted, never missing a practice, game, recital, or gig. He filled his children’s lives with camping trips, fishing adventures, and long days at the beach. He enjoyed crossword puzzles, playing guitar, and simply being with the people he loved. Dennis appreciated a good joke as much as a sad song, and though he was a man of few words, he carried a lifetime’s worth of stories.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Katherine Hughes and Felix Owens; his brother, Mike Owens; his nephew, Chuck Everhart; his mother-in-law, Vivian Hausler, father-in-law, Roger Hausler, and beloved dog Sheba. He is survived by his wife, Penny Sue Hicks Owens; his children, Caren Broadstock, Dustin Owens, and Crystal Owens; daughter in law Heather Mills Owens; his grandchildren, Rebecca, Cheyenne, JJ, and Dylan; his great-grandchildren, Braxton, Evelyn, Brayden, and Silas; his siblings, Judy Horner, Deb Merck, Linda Grant, and Steve Owens, and his dogs Sadie and Boudreaux. He also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, and nephews whom he loved deeply.

Though Dennis is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the countless memories he created, the love he gave, and the lives he touched. He will be forever missed by those lucky enough to have had the pleasure of knowing him.