Wilburn Loyd Owens, 91

Wilburn Loyd Owens, 91, passed away March 2, 2025, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. 

Born on July 26, 1933, in Broken Bow, Okla., Wilburn lived a life rich with adventure, faith and love for his family. He graduated from Hutchinson High School in Hutchinson, Kan., before continuing his education at Moorpark College in Moorpark, Calif., where he earned an associate's degree. 

Wilburn served his country as a private first class in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. His business career spanned various pursuits, culminating in his retirement from Fadal Engineering. However, it was outside of work where Wilburn truly thrived — he was a lifelong outdoorsman who found joy in hunting, fishing and camping. He delighted in sharing these passions with others and continued to embrace adventure well into his later years: At the age of 89, just months after being diagnosed with congestive heart failure, he proudly shot his first moose. 

Faith was an important part of Wilburn’s life. He served for many years with The Gideons International and was involved at every church he attended. Anyone who met him would soon hear about his faith in Jesus.

Wilburn is survived by his three sons: James (Whitney), David (Debbie) and Andrew (Barb). He also leaves behind nine grandchildren — David, Rachel, Abby, Drew, Joseph, Hannah, McKinlee, Garrett and Carlee — as well as nine great-grandchildren: Josh, Grace, Harlee, Daisy, Ivy, Reuel, Micaiah, Harrison and Ellie. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Clinton Owens and Annie Lee Owens, along with several other loved ones who were no doubt waiting to welcome him into heaven. 

Wilburn will always be remembered as a man, a father and a grandfather who did his best to bring light wherever he went.

A celebration of Wilburn’s life will be held March 22, 2025, at Real Life Ministries North Campus in Athol, Idaho (30447 N. Roughstock Road), from 1 to 4 p.m. A dessert reception will follow the service.

    Owens