came here from a patricia taxxon video where she mentioned your video about hackenbush a lot and in the end of the video, she was emotional. Emotional of you and your passing. You have impacted a lot of people everywhere, even those that never knew you. Like patricia and even me.

when i was looking you up, and seeing all that you've done and what you were passionate of, the first thing i thought after all of this was "i love you"

hope you are resting well. we miss you.

Your aunt Gail, your Dad and I were talking of you just yesterday, as we often do, remembering your brilliance and your wit!  You will live in our hearts forever. 

Love,  Aunt Jes

Thinking of you on your birthday. I took the ferry to Woodside and left some copies of "Woodside Whimsy" on the piano: I like to think maybe someone will pick one up and play it and help keep your music and your memory alive. All my love always.

Mom

Last week, I graduated from Dalhousie, but I couldn't help feeling a certain emptiness. I started my studies at Dalhousie in 2018, facing challenges in adjusting to a new institution and culture. Owen was always there, mentoring me through difficult times. Without his significant support, both substantively and morally, I truly believe I would not have graduated as easily as I did.

Owen's legacy has profoundly impacted my life and my outlook on it. His unwavering guidance and encouragement helped me through some of my toughest challenges in life. His dedication to helping others succeed showcases his character and commitment. 

In his memory, I will always carry his lessons with me. It is my hope that I will be able to support and uplift others just as he did for me.

2/2 I’ll forever miss his incredibly funny and creative jokes, and puns that were simultaneously high brow and made you think, “damn, why didn’t I think of that.” I played games with him in voice calls in his later years, and many thrilling rounds of Marble Blast multiplayer (my victories were far and few between). He cherished his friendships and held them up high, always taking care to preserve and remind our friend group of our chat’s funniest moments. Most of all I learned so much from his environmental activism and unwavering sense of integrity when confronted with challenges. The world would be a better place if we all thought “what would Owen do” in any given situation before taking action. Rest in power.
~Emile Serper, aka Eguy

1/2 It was rainy last evening here in the Bay Area, and I've been having trouble sleeping lately due to anxiety. I remembered Owen, two years after he left us, by looping his Improv Weekly series on my iphone speaker.  His endless world of creativity comforted me to the point that I eventually was able to doze. I was a longtime friend of Owen; I met him through the Marble Blast community. Being an aspiring composer and math major at my university, he would sometimes jokingly call me his "mini-me" which was a nickname that gave me more pride than anything in the world, even though I felt it would be a challenge to live up to given the kind of person he was. I looked up to him so much. We would bond over our strangely similar childhood quirks - not just playing Marble Blast, but also writing songs and giving them names in a made up language, constantly playing with numbers and equations, our love for the Sesame Street counting song, and other things.  As I got older I lost much of my early proficiency and joy for mathematics. However, seeing the Hackenbush video, how Owen kept shining his light on and portraying the beautiful spirit of math, inspired me to rediscover its creative aspects. Owen's music had a profound impact on my musical development during a time when I was trying to find my "voice" as a composer. I'd never met anyone else who could write melodies that take your breath away, combined with incredibly apt chord progressions, in a way that is accessible to forward thinking niche contemporary musicians and everyday listeners alike. Actually, for a recent class project, we had to orchestrate a piano piece, and I arranged two of his Instagram Etudes for orchestra (a project he and I started on a livestream but never completed during his lifetime). If any of Owen's family is reading this, just let me know the best way to reach/email any of you and I'd love to send them. I am eager to help his music get the recognition it deserves, however possible.

Dearest nephew,
Your dad and I were swapping stories and memories of you today, both recent and from way back when you were just a little boy. Our favorite is “OK, who stole my scarf…“

I will always feel blessed to have you as my nephew. You live on through our memories and your music.

Love aunt Jess

Loving you and missing you, today and every day.

xo

Mom

Merry Christmas my brilliant nephew! We always set a place at the table for you, we never forget the incredible impact you have had on our lives, and the lives of so many others. I keep you in my heart always.

Merry Christmas my brilliant nephew! We always set a place at the table for you, we never forget the incredible impact you have had on our lives, and the lives of so many others. I keep you in my heart always.

Love Aunt Jes

I don't usually air my thoughts online, but I felt that I had to write something to convey my great respect for Owen.

Over the course of the pandemic, I was struggling with a lack of motivation to pursue my passion, mathematics and physics. It was only with the aid of videos from creators such as 3Blue1Brown, Veritasium and others that I began to see mathematics as fun again. Owen's video on Hackenbush, in particular, played an instrumental role in me finding my motivation to pursue mathematical truths on my own. His video was almost uniquely playful, motivated and beautiful, fully showing just how beautiful mathematics can be, and how surprising order can arise from simple questions and games.

Despite only posting a single video related to mathematics, I still feel no shame in considering him one of the best mathematics communicators that I have seen, and that single video remains my favorite video on mathematics I have ever seen. I hope everyone that knows Owen even a bit more intimately knows how great of an impact he had on other people.

Owen:

Today you would have been 26. There are many things I wish to say here but most importantly, that the humanitarian work you started has found a way to inspire so many across the world. I am proud to be a fellow New Yorker, and I am and have always been  proud to have been your friend. 

Happy Birthday and Rest in Power, sir.


In 1999 I met a little boy obsessed with the number 2. I was one  of his many educators at Allegro child care centre. I enjoyed watching him blossom into a musical genius at the ripe age of 5. I am saddened to see his obituary here today. I want you to Know he was loved by many people over he is short life and will never be forgotten. 
I often talk about Owen and the impact he had on my life, he was a remarkable little boy. He was an important part of my life as an educator, mother and human.  I learned so much about diversity and how everyone is unique and deserves opportunities to become who they are meant to be in life. 
Thank you for being you Owen. 
💔💔💔💔Angela Findlay 

I have always loved mathematics, and Owen's video on Hackenbush caught my maths-passionate and youthful mind at such a unique time. His devotion to a charming niche is truly inspiring, and I often find myself relating deeply to his many works - from his many wonderful compositions to Hackenbush.

Many people believe that mathematics is cold and unemotive. I teared up towards the end of my first viewing of his work, and it reminds me so much of my own passion and drive.

I still find it incredibly difficult to take the news of his passing, and I express nothing but the deepest sorrows to his many friends and loved ones.

While this message didn't meet Owen in time (to my extreme regret), I hope it can find its way to those who loved him: I'm sincerely thankful of his work, and his deeply relatable passion.

I will live on, and I hope to take to heart some of his wonderful spirits that he has given to this world.

- TPM

It's hard to put into words how much Owen’s passing has affected me. He was the brother I chose in life, and his loss is deeply felt in passing. I'll always remember the long conversations we had about sciences, philosophy, and politics. Owen had a way of challenging my perspective and making me think deeply. But, what I'll truly cherish most is his kindness and empathy. He was always there when anyone needed support, listening without judgment and offering wise advice. His passing is a true tragedy and loss to our nation, and he will be deeply missed.

 Rest in power, dear friend.

💟 Thinking of you every day, Owen 🌠

I just saw Owen's video on Hackennbush. It was so good, I felt I had to get in contact with him and thank him for it. Now I am very sad as I read that he has passed. I still felt I wanted to reach out. There was something special about the amount of thought he had put in to that video. Thank you Owen, I am certain this video will help thousands for a very long time. 

Dearest Owen,

Last night I dreamed we could talk to you using a special phone.  It was Christmas time and we were all together - your mom, dad, Maddie, me and your Aunt Gail.  We stumbled upon this special cell phone and were surprised to discover you on the other end!  You sounded happy.  It was so good to hear your voice.  At the end of the dream, we reminded each other that, anytime we want, we could reach out and connect, we just needed to remember to use the special phone.

I like that idea.  Knowing that anytime I want I can reach out to you on a sort of astral cell phone and just say hello.

I am sure where ever you are, you are still your sweet, humble self, bursting with creativity.

Love, 

Aunt Jess


From Owen's family:

We wanted to say a few words here, one year after Owen’s death.

2022 has been the hardest and saddest year of our lives, but it was made better by the sympathy and support we have received: thank you all so much for your many kindnesses to us, and for the generous donations made in Owen’s name to community and environmental organizations. We have also been helped by the many memories and tributes people have shared; these showed us how much positive impact Owen’s too-short life actually had, especially through his music and his love of math. It gladdens our hearts to know that we are not the only ones who will always remember how creative, brilliant, funny, and kind he was.

One way Owen’s legacy will continue is through the new Owen Maitzen Prize in Music Composition at Dalhousie’s Fountain School of Performing Arts; we think Owen would be glad to be supporting other aspiring musicians. Visitors to the Joseph Strug Concert Hall may also find themselves in a seat with his name on it.

We mourn and miss Owen every day, but we continue to take comfort in knowing that his last days with us were full of love and laughter, and that he is now, in Christina Rossetti’s words, “sleeping at last, the trouble and tumult over.”

In love and remembrance,

Rohan, Steve, and Maddie

I recently learned about Owen from the Hackenbush video he published a year ago. After watching, I was invigorated to learn more about him and his created works. It deeply saddened me to see the news of his passing, but something compels me to try and put in to words the effect that a person like Owen can have on the world.

From only a small glimpse in to his mind, I could see he had an infinite amount of potential to offer. He was able to convey his feelings, not just through words, but through music. Owen conveyed meaning in the content he put out. In a world where so many people are lost, Owen's works are lighthouses leading sailors to shore.

His impact will last in the hearts of everyone he's touched, far longer than he could have imagined. Thank you Owen, I hope you have found peace.

It's been almost a year since we lost Owen, there's not a day that goes by that I don't remember his kindness and generosity. 

It's Maddie's birthday. It was always wonderful to see you two laughing together. Wish you were here, today and every day.

Thinking of you on Earth Day (and every day) - remembering the work you did and the joy you found in climate activism. We love you and miss you so much.

xo Mom

Dearest Owen, it's been 3 months today since you left us and I am just now able to share some thoughts here.

My first memory of Owen is when he was about 3 years old, and I bought him a xylophone for either birthday or Christmas.  I didn't have any idea he'd actually like it, but I knew it would probably drive his parents nuts so of course I had to buy it!  Later Steve told me Owen had started singing songs using numbers instead of lyrics.  The xylophone had come with instructions and numbered the keys on the keyboard.  I said "I had no idea that would happen".  He said "Neither did we", and that really sums up Owen for me.  Always surprising us with new talent and creativity.  Such a gentle, amazing, talented soul!  And tender hearted, humble.  I miss him every day.


Today I was driving and listening to Tom Power on Radio 2.  I heard a piece by Owen and promised myself that when I got home, I would read up on Owen - and sadly got a shock.  I don't play music, didn't know Owen but his music grabbed me when I  heard it.  If there is a way to keep his memory alive, I would like to help.  Warren Viegas (Toronto) you can see my post on FB. 


Today they played one of his Instagram Études on CBC Music and it brought a smile to a drizzly day in Vancouver.  Although he chose when to leave, his music lives and brings joy still. 💟  twitter.com/cbcabouttime?s=11 

Just heard one of his lovely etudes played on CBC music. He was a wonderful pianist and his memory lives on through his music. Thank you for sharing your gift Owen.

I am just a viewer of the video which Owen made on HackenBush. I really enjoyed the video and shared with all my friends. Today when I went to rewatch it, I saw one of the comment written "RIP Owen". I couldn't believe it, and I googled the Owen's full name to find he had died.

I felt I was struck by thunder... I don't think I can put the feeling into words when someone who you consider a hero his own life. Still, the choice was his own, and I respect that.

RIP Owen. Hopefully you'll be able to continue doing what you love in Heaven.

Dear Rohan, Stephen and Maddie, I want to offer my sincere condolences and those of Inglis Street Elementary School where i worked with him for four years.
What wonderful memories I have of Owen; from the first day i met you Stephen and we talked about Owen coming to our school to the last time I saw Owen performing his own music at his own concert.  I was so incredibly proud of him as was everyone else at the performance!!
Owen was his own person, kind, thoughtful and a very deep thinker.  From his wonderful artistic talents to his brilliance in math.  From his abilities to see beyond his years to his incredible musical talents ( I still have one of his first recordings he gave to me).  Owen was truly a unique person who, as a teacher, one comes across only rarely in one's teaching career.
He will be remembered by all his friends and all the teachers that had the honor of working with him.


Carol Dodds
Inglis Street School


I have been a secret spectator of Owen’s life for quite some time.  My connection to him and his family is fairly distant, seeing as I’m just another student of Owen’s father Stephen.  But that association was enough to bring me into contact with Owen’s online contributions, musically and otherwise.  Like his wonderful mother, Owen was generous enough to tinker with his soul aloud in his blogs, at times unflinchingly delving into some of his deepest vulnerabilities.  Beyond appreciating his audacity, I think those of us who comprised his secret readership saw his contributions as quite apart from the heart-on-the-sleeve confessions of a regular young man.  I felt that the inexhaustible network of his mind was, in the end, a smiling web.  And it was this loving intelligence that won over hearts even as removed from his circles as I am.  Moreover, whatever natural envy that I felt at times at his extraordinary example simply had to yield to admiration.  Especially as I gleaned in bits and tweets from his mother, Rohan, the sweet anecdotes of his filial and brotherly affections.  Clearly he was someone who wielded his gifts with warmth and grace.  And, although he was his own person, I cannot help attributing at least some of his virtue to his incredible family. 
I want to thank Rohan for initially sharing the news of Owen’s passing with us, and to let her know that I’m in awe of the strength it took her to do so.  Also, I want to say to Stephen that, however hard it might be to detect lights so distant, Nelson and Madusha, and Nidusha and myself send our love from our respective corners in the world.  We talk about you with affection all the time; we really love you.  Finally, I want to extend my heart to Maddie, Owen’s sister.  I always remember yours and Owen's smiling faces up on the projector before class started—it’s so touching to know your father brings you two with him everywhere he goes.  

Our condolences, 
Jamieson Hawkins and Nidusha Ranaweera


I had the great privilege of going to Citadel High with Owen and have wonderful memories of sitting together during our Spanish 12 classes. He was teaching himself Braille at the time and I fondly remember him writing and passing me a message in Braille during one of our lessons. He was a brilliant and genuinely kind person and I am so incredibly sorry to hear this news. ❤

To the loved ones of Owen, 
I did not know Owen but was touched by the openness and love in the obituary. It feels healing to read these thoughtfully written and honest words. It feels freeing as for many who are in a dark place or who made that choice were alone or surrounded by shame, guilt, and blame. Suicide also seemed to define their memory instead of their inner brilliance and things that lit them up. 
Thank you for giving hope and spreading light through Owen's memory to all who read it. He lives on through his legacy and through his music ❤️ His music is brilliant. May the perspectives on mental health shift. 
Love to you all at this time,
Theresa ❤️ 

I met Owen at the Dalhousie Chess Club in 2018. I quickly found out that he was a brilliant mind, which showed through his chess, music, academics, and activism. He was an inspiration to all of the Club's members to become the best they could be. The club would not have been the same without him. I am very thankful for everything he taught me, and for all he did for the Halifax chess community. I send my deepest condolences to his family and friends.

When Owen and I were in high school together, we were asked to play background music for some evening social event in the cafeteria. We decided it would be best to get together and rehearse -- me on guitar, and him on piano. So one afternoon I went to his house, and we played through a few of his charts, and some other pieces... It soon became clear that I was the only one who needed the practice. Owen was a wizard musician. His compositions were creative, and thoughtful. His playing came from a deep place. The performance at school went beautifully -- he was wonderful -- although, to this day, my favorite part was just listening to him tinker with ideas in our rehearsal space. Performing with him was a true gift, but the real blessing was watching his process unfold. He genuinely loved music, and that joy emanated from every note he played. Over the years, I would run into him around the Dalhousie Arts Centre from time to time. Our conversations shifted from music to his forays in programming. I wasn't surprised to find that Owen, in what were just a few years since I last saw him, was tackling another heavy field in expert depth, no different than how he approached his music. His brilliance always amazed me, but more than anything, his warmth made me feel like a true friend. His intelligence was vast, but his soft tone and kindness made you feel like an equal in all the ways that really matter. The world is less one beautiful mind, and one very warm heart; I'm grateful to have witnessed, and been a recipient of both. I'll miss Owen very much. My deepest love and condolences, to his friends and family. 

I met Owen when he was in grade nine. I was his Program Assistant. That school year was both challenging and very interesting for me, as I had never worked with such a brilliant student before! He was not only top of his class,  a chess wizard, amazing pianist and composer but he could also play basketball ! 

I was always grateful to Owen’s parents for inviting me to attend one of his amazing piano performances. Now I am very thankful that I have that wonderful memory of him….so happy, playing his music, with his family and friends gathered together, supporting and applauding him!

On Owen’s grade nine graduation day, I like to think we shared a pretty cool moment when he came to the Learning Centre doorway ….…We thanked each other….. without having to say the words.


My deepest sympathy and prayers to his parents, his sister, his relatives and friends.

Thanks Owen for those memories,
 may Peace be with you🙏
Mrs. Joanie Langley

I knew of Owen through his father, Stephen. Steve would share his son's beautiful compositions or memorable stories of him, which were acts I thought of as sweet and generous. I understand now that such generosity was possible because Owen himself was an abundantly and profoundly generous person right up to his departure. I am saddened to hear of his passing. I send my deepest condolences and sympathies to his friends and family. May he rest, still just full of love. 

I did not know Owen but when I saw the notice his picture struck me  as being so angelic and sweet.  It is a shame that the world can no longer share in his physical presence.  I wish he could have chosen life as he seems to have emulated so much good.  I believe others  can genuinely sense  his pain and yours.  May God bless.

Dear Maitzen family, I had the pleasure of growing up with Owen from the time he came to Inglis Street. He was known by all for his intellect, virtuoso piano talent, and as a fierce chess competitor from a young age. I remember watching, in awe, as Owen mopped the floor with the competition during our Math olympics. He was an impressive man and one of the only times I can think of that I’ve been in the presence of pure brilliance. Owen was also incredibly approachable, he could switch from University-level mathematics to making jokes while eating his cream cheese sandwiches. I was fortunate enough to see his determination, characteristic witty humour, and patient teaching. I could also tell that he was a loving son and older brother by the way he talked about his parents and younger sister. I was always proud to be in the same class as Owen, who could capture the attention of the entire gym with his beautiful performances. It is heartbreaking that he is gone. Rest In Peace, Owen.

One of the indelible memories of my lifetime occurred when I visited Rohan and Steve in Halifax and was introduced to Owen who was still a very young child.  He sat down at the piano and started improvising.  It was a mix of an already sophisticated musical vocabulary, with intermittent quotations from other pieces evolving magically from his own thoughts.  Only one word came to mind, and it’s not one that i toss around lightly—genius.  Our profound condolences to his family members, some of whom I am privileged to count amongst my closest friends.

I knew Owen through Calculus and Chess Club at Citadel High. At first, I was taken back by his level of intellect to which my best friend Nash Mclean and I referred to him as "the wizard". I really respected Owen, however, it was through his teachings in math and battles at chess club that his true character came to light.  I realized how patient, thoughtful and kind he was. No matter how many times Nash and I would be fully stumped on a calculus concept, or he would beat us (more so me than anyone else lol) with the same move or same tactic in chess that we failed to see, we would then turn to Owen for his teachings and wisdom in which he would take us on with confidence.  From my experiences at University and higher learning, it is a rare gift to have someone that can both balance that level of intellect and also be able to explain it in layman's terms to their peers with patience and humility. These characteristics are something that I won't forget and will always try to incorporate into my own life as a professional. I will never forget Owen and the values he instilled in me at a young age. I wish the best for his family going forward. 

Owen was such a brilliant mind. I spent 2 years sitting beside Owen in high school math. When the class would be attempting equations on the white board, he would always instruct to “just do it this way” and the teacher would respond with “we don’t learn that concept until high level university math Owen” he was always ahead of his time academically. 

I spent many lunch breaks unsuccessfully challenging Owen in battle chess. While 2 of us would play him at once it was nearly impossible to defeat him. If we were thinking 2 steps ahead, he was thinking 5. 

It was a pleasure knowing him while I did and I hope he Rest In Peace. Sending my condolences to his entire family. 

I am very sorry to hear about Owen's passing. Owen was a phenomenal person that I had the pleasure of meeting at the Dalhousie Chess Club. I will always remember him for his intellect as he as was one of the strongest players at the club. But I will also remember him as a very humble and kind person who was passionate about the things he did. I am truly sorry for your loss. 

My memory of Owen was playing chess against him when he was about 10 years old.  He was remarkable. I was not. He was kind and helpful with my lack of skills. At some point Rohan said "Owen, it is bed time. Wrap it up."  And he did one or two moves said checkmate and thanked me for the game, shock my hand, smiled kindly and went to bed. 

I am so sorry for your loss. I connected with Owen at Citadel High. My favourite memory was when he set up the chess games in the Caf. One of the Special Needs students wanted to play, he told the others, let it happen, we can do this for him.  That interaction just warmed my heart, the student just giggled and giggled.  Owen had such a big heart for the LC students. My heartfelt sympathy goes to your family.  Lynn Nickerson EPA Citadel High

I remember Owen’s kindness,  sharp intellect, and his desire always to do his best. He was an outstanding young man I thoroughly enjoyed teaching.
I am heartbroken to read of his death, and send my deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

I read the obituaries daily as has been my practice for many years and have never read a more beautifully written tribute. You capture the essence of Owen in this profound piece of writing and although I do not know your family I just want to say thank you for sharing your experience so freely. The respect and love your family has to share offers such meaningful and loving insight. Through this sharing I believe you have helped so many and I hope you can also feel the love you have in such abundance coming back to you during this difficult time. With love, admiration and hugs, most sincerely, 
Angela Fraser


I had the privilege of teaching Owen only briefly, when he was in early Elementary school, but still remember him clearly. I taught him French, a language he picked up easily - his love of words and wordplay was evident even then.  My deepest condolences for the loss of your special son.

It's difficult for grandparents to be on the opposite side of the country, but we cherish our times with Owen in Vancouver and Halifax.  Here is a fond memory of our visit in 2011

I am truly saddened upon hearing the news of Owen's passing.  He was a "once in a  lifetime" kind of student for me; brilliant beyond words, caring, kind, a little brazen and rather funny.  I was honored to teach him, to even know him.  I had often been warned of his penchant for outbursts in class, particularly as it pertained to grades.  One day I gave him back his assignment and it was not the grade he expected but I told him in no uncertain terms that it would not be changed.  The other students looked in amazement when he just said, "Oh, OK".  We enjoyed a great relationship.  R.I.P. Owen, the world is not the same without you.

Dear Rohan, Stephen and Maddie,

On behalf of Owen's Gorsebrook Junior High Family, I offer my sincere condolences on the passing of your dear son, and brother, Owen.  Owen certainly made his mark with all he knew.  I remember him as a brilliant pianist, his solos at the school concerts were second to none.  I remember the many meetings we had, as teachers we struggled to figure out how to teach math to a kid who clearly knew so much more than all of us!  Owen was unique, kind and friendly and I will always remember him.  Maddie, I know you will miss your one of a kind big brother.  God Bless!   

Jennifer Wallace

I was so heartbroken to see the news of Owen’s passing this morning. Having spent grades 2-12 with Owen, he taught myself and my friends so much and showed us how powerful an individual’s mind could be. I remember watching Owen accomplish things in Grade 2 that I could only dream to ever accomplish in a lifetime. At Inglis Street Elementary, my classmates and I would marvel at Owen taking the stage at school concerts and playing with such energy and grace that the whole gymnasium of students, teachers and parents would be left breathless. Upon hearing the sad news, my friends and I spent the morning sharing stories and fond memories we had of Owen. These stories included Owen playing a video game and us watching him over his shoulder and saying, “Wow this looks sick!” and Owen humbly informing us with a giggle “Yes, I actually made this one”, or “Yes, I actually have the world record on this one”. Or when 6 of us sat down to all separately play Owen at Chess at the same time, and him proceeding to destroy all of us in about 5 or so moves – taking absolutely no prisoners, but always following his win with a smile and handshake. Or when the rhyme and wit of Owen’s wordplay at the “Citadel High Freestyle Rap Club” never failed to leave us all in tears of laughter. 
Owen taught us so much about life by simply being himself, and we will all forever be grateful for our time with him.


Dear Rohan, Stephen and Maddie,
I am just devastated this morning to read of Owen’s passing. He was such a bright light of talent, humour and kindness. As his teacher at a young age, there was so much that Owen taught me, he was an old soul. I still remember funny little quips he would toss out into the classroom that were so on point. My deepest sympathy to you and all of your family. I can’t imagine your loss. I know he has left behind a family who truly loved and supported him. I hope your memories of happy times will bring you some comfort now.
Sincerely,
Peggy Lugar

I feel so lucky to have had glimpses of this extraordinary, rich and complicated person whom I will always hold in my heart.  I remember Owen: as a baby, blocking his ears when the cacophony of the world became overwhelming; as a young child, taking solace in the harmonious music he was so gifted at playing; as a young man, continuing to create and imagine despite his terrible struggles with physical and mental anguish. To his sister, parents and grandparents, I send my deepest sympathies. Though the loss is immense, he is now at peace. 

I used to find Dr. Maitzen during his office hours. Sometimes Steve would share video and audio of Owen playing piano. He spoke highly of his son and was obviously a very proud father. Owen sounded so talented: he played beautifully, musically, energetically, even at age 11.

Owen was a mentor, close friend, and activist who helped me through a difficult period in my life. I will never forget his kindness, 
 selflessness, and talent. Rest in power, brother. ❤️

Since last night, Rohan, I have read and re-read your tribute to Owen’s life, his overflowing creativity, and his love for others. I do not know how you found the strength to write these words, in which “Love” clasps “Grief, lest both be drowned.” I did not know Owen except through conversations with you over the years, in which you expressed your love for him and your pride in his many talents and accomplishments. After reading your words, I listened to some of Owen’s music and marvelled at the many kinds of compositions he created. It is difficult to conceive of the suffering Owen must have endured in his struggles with depression –one psychologist I have read who herself experienced clinical depression described “profound melancholia” as an “almost arterial level of agony.” I think you are very brave in so frankly addressing his depression. As William Styron observed, “Depression afflicts millions directly, and many millions more who are relatives or friends of victims.” But too often, we do not confront it. That Owen could bring so much beauty and positive change into the world in his amazing creativity and social activism -- despite the suffering caused by his depression -- speaks to his courage and to the nurturing loving network his family created for him.  I hope that you can find comfort in your memories, his many artistic legacies and most of all in his enduring expressions of love.

I am so terribly sorry to hear of your loss- the world is poorer because of Owen’s absence. It was a genuine pleasure to know him.

Kerin Martin
Citadel High

My son and I remember Rohan and Owen visiting Vancouver from Halifax when Owen was 4 or 5 years old.  We were out for a walk in the sunshine along the False Creek Seawall. Every step Owen took with us he would say another square root. My son and I have always remembered their visit, and to this day we bring up how brilliant that little guy was. 💖

His grandmother Dolores Maitzen Rice loved sharing stories about Owen’s musical talents. They were visiting Dolores, and put 3 years old Owen to bed. Then they gathered around the baby monitor, as Owen sang himself to sleep. 
I was in a state of constant astonishment whenever Dolores told me about Owen’s latest musical accomplishment - I always asked “HOW old is he again??!”, as my mind was unable to comprehend how someone so young was so unbelievably gifted.

I am very sorry for your loss, Rohan, Steve, and Maddie.  Owen was brilliant, talented, musical, and kind.  I will never forget teaching Owen in Kindermusik when he was a baby.   Sometimes we would play a movement game to music that involved momentarily stopping and listening when the music stopped.   Owen loved music so much that when the music stopped, he would cry.  He felt deeply and was sensitive.



OBITUARIO

Owen Stephen Maitzen

22 julio, 1997 – 30 diciembre, 2021

Cruikshank’s Halifax Funeral Home

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