David Edward Owens

David Edward Owens, 79, of Diggins, went to his heavenly home on Dec. 17, 2022, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield.

“Dave” was born on Dec. 23, 1942, in Rogersville, Missouri, the eldest of 12 children of King Edgar and Mildred Fern (Dickson) Owens.

Dave was united in marriage with Ruby Ann Lea on Sept. 6, 1966. To this union, two children were born, and together they raised five children.

Dave was a proud United States Army veteran, serving his country from 1962-1964. After the military, he worked for the laborers’ union before a 32-year career with the Local 10 Ironworkers Union. As an ironworker, Dave helped to build many structures in Missouri, including Bagnell Dam and Truman Lake Dam and missile silos across the state.

Dave made a profession of faith in Jesus Christ and was a member of Diggins Baptist Church.

Dave was a volunteer with the Southern Webster County Fire Protection District for many years. He enjoyed fishing, smoking meat, monthly breakfasts with his siblings, and most of all, playing with the grandkids and making them holler.

Dave was preceded in death by his mother, father, son, Ronald Edward “Ronnie” Owens, grandson, Ty Krider Owens, daughter, Cindy Ann Witt, and great-grandson, Anthony Witt.

Dave is survived by his wife, Ruby, of the home and baby girl, Kimberly Brook (Owens) Wilkins, along with Deborah Laschanzky, Bobby Smith and Winona Owens, 16 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, 11 siblings, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors, and friends. He had a special bond with God-daughter Brittni Ritchie, honorary granddaughter Cambri Shores, and neighbor Mike Thurman.