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William Dennis "Denny" Owen

2/23/2021

24 Comments

 
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William Dennis “Denny” Owen, 94, of Skaneateles, NY, a prominent businessman, benefactor, and tireless advocate for Catholic Charities and his alma maters, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, with his three cherished daughters by his side. 
Denny, the second of three children, was born in 1926 in Utica, NY to Margaret S. Byrne and William S. Owen.  His parents, modest and hard-working immigrants from Ireland and Wales, instilled in their children a strong sense of family, hard work, self-confidence and humility, both by example, and through their many wise lessons and Irish sayings. 
In the 1930s, following a family move to the Westvale suburb of Syracuse, young Denny learned about generosity when his grade school principal gave him a pair of sneakers that his family could not afford, which helped Denny get started on the basketball court.  In 1941, he entered high school on a scholarship to Christian Brothers Academy (CBA), where he lettered in football and excelled in basketball.  Among his most memorable basketball accomplishments were being named MVP of the Catholic High School State Championship Tournament in 1944, and being selected to the Syracuse All-City, 1st Team in 1944 and 1945 by both the Herald-American and Post-Standard newspapers.  For years, he reminded friends and family with a smile "Two Years, All-City, Both Papers."  In 2002, Denny was inducted into the CBA LaSallian Sports Hall of Fame. 
In February 1945, Denny was called to serve in the U.S. Naval Air Corp., serving as a Seaman Second Class.  Following his military service, Dennis attended Georgetown University in Washington, DC, and graduated in 1951 from its School of Foreign Service.
Shortly after graduating, Dennis returned to Syracuse and joined his father at the W.S. Owen Company, a manufacturer's sales representative firm.  A natural in sales, Dennis often reminded his children and grandchildren to "always ask for the order". 
In September 1954, he married the love of his life, Eleanor Teresa Sullivan of Binghamton, NY.  They built their first home and established their family of eight children in Westvale, encircled by the homes of Dennis's parents, brother and sister.  In 1967, Dennis and Eleanor purchased Roosevelt Hall, and moved their young family to Skaneateles.  In 1974, they donated the historic home to the Christian Brothers, in recognition of the significant impact the school had on Dennis's education and personal development. 
Dennis was a communicant of St. Mary's of the Lake Church for over half a century.  He was also a member of the Skaneateles Country Club, and very well known in the local community for his generosity, friendliness, and as Master of Ceremonies at the annual Skaneateles Turkey Trot. 
Grounded by his humble beginnings, Dennis devoted his adult life to actively supporting numerous charities, including working with an early mentor, Monsignor Charles Brady, at the Bishop Foery Foundation, addressing the needs of inner-city poverty.  Dennis later helped to establish the Oxford Street Inn, a shelter for homeless men.  For 40 years, he served on the Board of Catholic Charities, and received their President’s Medallion. 
Dennis was a life-long advocate for Christian Brothers Academy, where he served as a trustee, avid fundraiser, chairman of the board, and trusted advisor.  He personally endowed a perpetual gift to fund scholarships for underprivileged students; so far over 70 students have received the four-year scholarship.  For his unending support and service, in 1983 Dennis was awarded a Diploma of Affiliation with the Christian Brothers international organization, an honor bestowed on only five laypersons in more than a century. 
Dennis loved and supported his alma mater, Georgetown University, at the local and national levels of alumni leadership for more than 50 years, serving as president of the Georgetown Alumni Club of Syracuse, president of the Alumni Association, and a member of the Board of Directors, Board of Governors, and Board of Regents.  In 1983, Georgetown awarded Dennis the John Carroll Award for his distinguished service.
He was inducted into the Order of Malta in 1989, a founding member of its Central NY Chapter, and helped establish the Malta House for elderly residents in Mattydale. 
 
Dennis was predeceased by his parents; his sister Maureen and husband Don Louer; brother Joseph R. Owen, USMC Ret. and wife Dorothy Litz; and his beloved wife Eleanor Teresa Sullivan Owen, who died much too young in June 1982. 
 
Dennis's crowning achievement was the family he and Eleanor raised, including his eight children:  Brian (Krys) of Manchester, MA; Marty (Jan) of Toronto, Canada; Denny Jr. of Washington, DC; Joe (Alaine) of Clarence, NY; Molly (Paul) Adams of Cohasset, MA; Eileen (Michael) Nelson of Riverside, CT; Brendan (Delphine) of McLean, VA; and Teresa (Wade) Dyke of Coral Gables, FL; his 21 beloved grandchildren, three  great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who considered him a role model and mentor. 
 
Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 14th at 10am mass at St. Mary's of the Lake Church, Skaneateles, immediately following a reception will be at the Parish Center. All friends and family are invited. 
 
Memories of Dennis are welcome at www.robertdgrayfuneralhome.com. 
 
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Dennis's name to Catholic Charities of Onondaga, or The Skaneateles Ecumenical Food Pantry, as follows:
 
Catholic Charities of Onondaga County - Fund Development
Gift to Neighborhood Centers and Youth Programs
1654 West Onondaga Street
Syracuse, NY 13204
315-362-7527
Donations can also be made online: ccoc.us/giving/give-now
 
Skaneateles Ecumenical Food Pantry (located at 819 W. Genesee Street Rd.)
Mailing address:
P.O. Box 901
Skaneateles, NY - 13152
315-685-0427

 
 
 

24 Comments
Amy Adams Rich
3/1/2021 07:07:03 pm

I have so many wonderful memories of Mr. Owen! I know he will be greatly missed. He was such a loving father and so kind to all of us! I am sending all the Adams family love to you all! Miss you terribly!❤️

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Pamela L Pidhirny
3/2/2021 03:51:39 am

On behalf of the Loftus family, condolences go to the Owen family. It's sad to see the loss of so many of this great generation. Your father accomplished so much, and was always so friendly. He made you feel like you were so special. He will be missed.

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Sue Brown
3/2/2021 07:07:10 am

My condolences to the entire family; especially to Marty and Denny. God bless you all. Sue Brown SCS class of 1975

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Theresa Quilty
3/2/2021 10:04:24 am

Denny was everything good about CBA. I knew him when I was a counselor there for 23 years. He also knew my Grandmother, Marie Healy, and always made a point to see how I was doing and talk about her as well. His Irish spirit, energy and humbleness was never lost on me.....I always enjoyed talking to him and I'm grateful I got to know him. I cried reading all his accomplishments. What a great man. Definitely sharing your loss.

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Neil Strodel
3/2/2021 10:09:23 am

Denny was a contemporary of my Dad- Bob Strodel - and through their friendship I came to know Denny. I considered him as a friend, role model and community thought leader. Denny will be missed, he paved a broad path for many of us to follow. Condolences to the Owens family with special love from my wife Chris to Teresa.

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Mark Allyn
3/2/2021 10:42:32 am

Growing up in Skaneateles, Mr. Owens was always one of my favorite people to see. He would always greet me by name, ask me how I was doing, and then tell me his favorite joke about two fleas looking for a ride. He radiated kindness, warmth, and humility. His love of family extended to the entire community. My love and prayers to the Owens family, as we say goodbye to this gentle and loving man. Godspeed.

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Le Moyne College
3/2/2021 11:00:42 am

Please accept the most heartfelt sympathies of Le Moyne College. We hope the love and memories you will forever hold in your heart bring you peace and comfort during this difficult time.

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Kathryn Preaster
3/3/2021 10:34:19 am

Mr Owens gave my son Kenneth a scholarship at CBA thanks to him my son graduated,and went to NC State for architecture design. He was a nice man and with helping people. Thank you

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michael bersani
3/3/2021 02:23:54 pm

So sorry sorry to hear about Denny's passing! He was my dad's (Frank Bersani Sr.) best friend in high school and beyond. Dad told us many times about how Denny and he became friend when Denny shared a snicker's bar with him at CBA. Back in the 60's, Denny sold my father - for a generous price - what became our beloved "camp" on Skaneateles Lake when Denny purchased Roosevelt Hall. So many great memories there. And I remember fondly his sweet and gorgeous wife, Eleanor, who died so young. May they now rest in peace together. Peace and fond memories to all the Owens from the whole Bersani gang!

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Joe Owen
3/5/2021 07:35:12 am

Beautiful memories Mike! thanks for sharing!

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Denise Davis Stevens
3/3/2021 04:33:35 pm

It is with a heavy heart I extend my condolences
to all 8 of my most favorite second family.
May you all find strength and comfort in the great memories; I’m grateful to have shared in so many of those memories! I lOVE you ALL and you’re all in my daily prayers.
Rest In Peace Mr. Owen.😘❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏

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Analaya Williams
3/3/2021 05:53:36 pm

My condolences to the entire family of Mr. Owen. I remember meeting him my senior year of high school at Christian Brothers Academy. Thanks to his generosity, I was able to attend CBA since 8th grade. I don’t what my life would have been like if it was not for him. I remember writing to him every year and telling him about my high school experience and as always thanking him for providing me with the funds to attend. Meeting him was everything I expected and I think about that all the time. He was very sweet man and I loved that he could talk for hours. To Mr. Owen’s family and friends, I am very sorry for your loss.

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Joe Owen
3/5/2021 07:39:23 am

Analaya - thank you so much for sharing your story and experiences with our Dad. We are so happy he helped make your life better! He is a man that made the world a better place and he is a great role model for all of us. We wish you great success in your life - carry on! Joe Owen

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David Panasci
3/4/2021 05:28:58 am

My deepest condolences to the Owen family. I first met Denny many years ago when he called on Fay’s Drug Stores; and indeed he was a natural salesman. Getting to know him over the years, I learned he was warm, charismatic and deeply loyal to his family, friends and community. Above all, he was always a gentleman. Not only will I miss Denny but I must say it was an honor and privilege to have known him.

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Family of Ted and Sheila Kelly: Chris, AJ, Jen, Maggie and Terry
3/4/2021 01:03:15 pm

To all the Owens (and progeny): We share your sorrow and remember your father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a gentle soul and terrific community leader. Our parents enjoyed his company more than you can know. Thank you for sharing him with us. It will surely be said of him: "Well done, good and faithful servant." Rest In Peace, Mr. Owen.

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Joe Owen
3/5/2021 07:42:39 am

Beautiful and well said by our loving Kelly's! Thank you and love from all the Owens!

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Anton F. Kreuzer
3/5/2021 03:10:51 am

The Owen Family was truly blessed with one fine Dad/gentleman.
Knowing your Denny was a treat and now Barbara and I send most respectful prayers and sentiments.

Sincerely,

Tony Kreuzer

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Mary Downey Gualtieri
3/7/2021 10:51:27 am

Denny was a wonderful, kindhearted man who was truly an inspiration to all who knew him! I had the pleasure of spending time with Denny in recent years while he was living at The Nottingham. He was a true example of ‘The Greatest Generation’ — exhibiting a strong work ethic, tremendous generosity, kindness and integrity. My thoughts and prayers are with each of his family members, whom he loved dearly. I am so sorry for your loss.

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Pat O'Connor and all
3/8/2021 12:11:58 pm

It is with great sadness I read about his passing, A lot of fond memories of him, and of course the whole family. Would run into him in recent years at the Y, nice chats every time. Good friend of my dad and mom. To all the Owen's, our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rest in peace Mr. Owen.
Pat O'Connor and Darcy, Megan, Kyle and Erin

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J. Richard Lynch
3/9/2021 10:01:15 am

On behalf of the Lynch family I wish to extend my best wishes to the great Owen family on the passing of your father. He was a man of immense accomplishments and contributions who enjoyed the friendships of countless people.He was also the mentor in general of and to Skaneateles.When I think of him I will also think of your beautiful mother and all of you who we were privileged to call our neighbors.and friends. You were blessed with two great parents who raised you in a great family atmosphere. You have so much to remember and even more to be grateful for. May God bless all of you now and always.

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Gretchen Kugler Chenenko
8/4/2021 04:58:30 pm

My sincere condolences, Marty. He sounds like he was a wonderful person, and he certainly raised at least one wonderful son! My heart goes out to you and the rest of your family. Thoughtfully, Gretchen

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Dr. Alfred Falcone
8/5/2021 07:59:26 am

Hello,
I am sorry I can not be there for the memorial tribute. Denny shared many activities with me. He made this a better world. God Bless Him.
Dr. Alfred Falcone

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9/24/2021 05:24:39 am

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2/19/2023 02:34:57 pm

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