Thomas Owens, 51, passed away at his home on Sunday, December 20, 2015.[private]
Born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania on February 25, 1964, Thomas was the son of Clark and Kathryn Owens of North Carolina. After moving from McKeesport to Oregon, and then to Salem, Connecticut, Thomas graduated from high school in 1982. He then began his career in concrete work, laying foundations and helping to build bridges.
Thomas enjoyed cruising on his Harley-Davidson, scuba diving all over the world (traveling to such places as the Cayman Islands, Honduras, and St. Eustatius), and most recently, taking up blacksmithing, teaching himself the ins and outs of skilled crafting. These hobbies filled Thomas with joy, but nothing made him more proud than his dedication to living in sobriety for over 27 years.
Thomas met his soulmate, Sandra Chittenden of Spring Valley, in April of 2002 and three short years later they were married. They were best friends who brought out the best in each other every single day. In addition to his wife and parents, Thomas is also survived by fivedevoted children; Thressa (Jesse) Milianta of Hoosick Falls, Danielle (Steve) Ampania of Connecticut, Crystal Defelice of Berlin, Lindsey (Josh) Trakas of Connecticut, and Christopher Defelice of Berlin. Additionally, Thomas leaves behind eight loving grandchildren; Maddison, Christofer, Abriella, Franchesca, Willamina, Gianna, Maximus, and lastly, Acsha, with whom he shared a special bond; going camping, stacking wood, and helping her with her coloring books. Thomas also has two sisters and a brother; Amy (Neil) Paben of Portland, Oregon, Elizabeth (Joseph) Dehner of North Carolina, and David (Lori) Owens of Connecticut. Furthermore, Thomas also has several adoring nieces and nephews.
A funeral service was held Thursday, December 24 at 12 noon at the Thomas M. Barber Funeral Home, 66 Armsby Rd., Petersburgh. Friends and relatives visited with the family prior to the service. Interment followed in Berlin Community Cemetery. Those who wish to remember Thomas in a special way may make a donation in memory of Thomas to the Berlin Volunteer Fire Company, PO Box 269, Berlin, NY 12022. Condolence book at www.parkerbrosmemorial.com[/private]