June 1, 1925, a baby boy was born to Samuel and Clara Owre, at the Wilcox Nursing School (Good Samaritan Hospital). His name was Benjamin Lloyd Owre, and he lived such a remarkable life for 90 years, 259 days, and an hour or so. Ben was the oldest of four children; the other three preceded him in death. He was in the US Navy for both WW2 and Korea, taking a break between wars to become a teacher. When discharged from the Navy, he went to Garrett Theological Seminary to become a Methodist minister; more importantly, he met the love of his life, Darlene Nelson. After becoming a minister, he began a full, rich career, first in Illinois then back to Oregon. By 1962 Ben and Darlene had two children, Suzanne and John. When his son was diagnosed with autism, he became an advocate for children with disabilities. In the rough storm of racial difficulties in Portland during the 60's and 70's, he was a strong advocate for bonding a city divided over race, through the Ministerial Alliance and political leaders of the city of Portland at that time. In 1979 he achieved his dream of earning his Doctorate in Theology. He and Darlene were foster and parents to 42 children over the years, adopting four more children; he was a doting husband and father, retiring in Salem in 1999 to take care of Darlene. After 42 years of marriage, Darlene died in 2001 and Ben once again became active in his community. He became an Ombudsman for Elders in Action, which lead to an incredible opportunity to volunteer for the Portland Police, working with elder victims of crime. He moved into a memory care home in October of 2013, and was cared for by the most loving and wonderful people; they have become extended family. Ben's philosophy of life was incredible: everyday is a new opportunity, use it wisely. No matter the extent of his pain, Ben was positive and upbeat, his strong faith and work ethic leading the way. His mind and spirit were restless were with his earthly body; he was ready to be with his wife and other members of his family again. Benjamin Owre leaves behind his children, grandchildren, and countless friends and lives he touched with his truly great sense of humor and gentle guidance and presence. Benjamin is survived by Suzanne Womack, daughter (Jeff), Mercedes, and Olivia, Portland; John Owre, Hood River; Charity Boyster (Doug), Cody, and Christopher, Junction City. Services for Benjamin Owre will be in late spring/early June. Thank you for all of your love and support.
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