MIchael K. Ownby Obituary (1946 - 2013)

Michael Kenyon Ownby, 66, passed away on June 4, 2013 at ABCM Rehabilitation West, in Independence after what he called "a long sudden illness." Mike was born September 5, 1946, the son of Robert Alton and Jeanne Louise (Kenyon) Ownby. He resided in Winthrop most of his life where he was a member of the Church of Christ United. He attended school at East Buchanan, graduating with the class of 1966. On July 22, 1966 he and Margaret Nelson were married in Winthrop. They lived in Cedar Rapids and Dubuque for a few years before moving back to Winthrop. They had three daughters: Andrea, Beth and Tina. The couple later divorced. Mike worked as a painter most of his life until health issues forced him to retire in 1995. When his children were young, he served on the pool board in Winthrop and was active in community events. Mike was an avid gun collector who loved to attend gun shows. He enjoyed target shooting, especially with his grandson Adam. He also enjoyed hunting, cars, and had a soft spot for animals, especially his miniature horses. His children and grandchildren were his greatest pride and joy. He enjoyed sharing stories about their accomplishments or one of the funny things one of the kids said or did. Mike is survived by his daughters Andrea Ownby of Urbana, Beth Ownby and Tina (Mark) Fangman of Independence; his grandchildren Adam Ownby, Ty Fangman, Carter Fangman and Ellie Fangman, all of Independence. He is also survived by his brother, Kim (Miriam) Ownby of Ripon, WI and his very special friend Linda Mayner and her family. Mike was preceded in death by his parents and his step-father, Delmar Kress. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 8, 2013 at 10:00 at Church of Christ United in Winthrop. Visitation will be Friday, June 7, 2013 at Fawcett's Funeral Home in Winthrop from 4:00 -8:00 p.m. and on Saturday after 9 AM at the Church. Private burial of cremains will take place at a later date.