William Fred Owen Jr.

He was a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather and loyal friend. Survived by his wife, Marion Janet Owen; his children and their spouses, Cindy and Tim Elbrecht, Sheree and Roger Bailey and his grandchildren, Kyle and Kristin Bailey and Tyler and Carly Elbrecht.

Fred was born in Seguin, Texas on November 6, 1930 and he graduated from Manor High School in 1949. After graduation he proudly served in the United States Air Force and then moved to the Austin area. Fred met Janet, the love of his life, on a blind date and they were married in 1956. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with family and friends this summer. He worked at the United States Post Office in the branch office at the University of Texas. Being an avid Longhorn fan, he enjoyed being a part of the campus life.

Fred had a strong faith and was an active member of First English Lutheran Church for over 70 years. He loved singing and joined the Austin Saengerrunde Men’s German Choir. The choir traveled throughout the U.S and Europe to perform. He and Janet also enjoyed spending weekend nights at Saengerrunde dancing with their many friends.

Fred’s passion was spending time at Lake Travis. He and Janet loved entertaining family and friends at their lake house. He owned a boat and patiently spent many hours teaching anyone interested how to water ski. Fred was always busy at the lake, from building a boat dock, a back deck for the house and using the bar-b-que pit.

Fred, fondly known as Gramps, loved his grandkids and never missed attending their sporting events, dance recitals and school performances. With patience and love, he taught them many life lessons. He was a generous, caring person and never met a stranger.

The family will receive friends at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home in Pflugerville Friday, December 30th from 6-8 pm.

Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, January 7th at First English Lutheran Church at 2:30 pm with Pastor Michael Coffey officiating. A BBQ meal will be served following the service.

The family would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to the staff at Buckner Villas for all of their care and assistance.

Memorials may be directed to First English Lutheran Church, 3001 Whitis Avenue Austin, TX 78705.

Please visit Fred’s memorial site at www.cookwaldencapitalparks.com where you can share memories and leave condolences for his family.