Paul Standford Owens

Paul Standford Owens, Vietnam Combat Veteran, sadly passed away on February 11, 2018 at his home in Canon City Colorado at the age 74. He was born July 29, 1943 in St. Louis, MO where he was raised by his parents Joe and Durlene Vickers. In 1964, he joined the Army and was first stationed in Ft. Leonard Wood MO. He also spent time stationed on several other army bases, including one year in Korea. In 1966 he was sent by boat to Vietnam where he spent fourteen long, excruciating months. He was a Vietnam Combat Veteran, and considered that one of his greatest feats. In 1967 he was awarded his Combat Badge, The United States Defense Service Medal, Korea and Vietnam Defense Service Medal, Expert Rifleman Badge, a plaque for Loyal and Faithful service along with numerous other honors. He was President and Vice President of the Florence Chamber of Commerce, President of the Retail Merchants Association, served on the Board of Directors of the Bicentennial Commission, and started and organized the Volunteer Fire Department in Jadwin MO where he also owned and operated BJ's Outpost. While living in Fremont County, he and Gloria owned and operated Gamble's Hardware Store for several years. He also donated to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, Shriners, and the Wounded Warrior Project. Paul had a passion for fishing, and riding motorcycles in his younger days. He also loved to spend time trying his luck at the casinos. His favorite term of endearment was, "you fruit!" Nothing brought him more joy than bringing happiness to others, especially his family. They were what he cherished most in life. He was generous, unselfish, and always there to lend a helping hand when he was able. He was, and always will be loved and cherished by all that knew him. While enlisted in the Army, he met and fell in love with Gloria Villagrana. They married in 1966 and had two daughters, Deb and Denise. Paul is survived by his ex-wife, Gloria Owens; daughters Deb Rall and Denise (Steve) Warren; grandchildren Ashley Rall (Eric Embry), Brandon Rix, and Jordan Rix; and one great-grandchild Preston Rall. He was one of eight brothers, of which he is survived by four: Buzz (Maria Elena) Vickers, Bradley (Norma) Vickers, Dennis (Kathy) Vickers, and Richard (Lara) Vickers. He was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Durlene Vickers, brothers Steve and Stan Owens, and Kenneth Vickers, nephew Bradley Vickers Jr, and niece Cristina Vickers. Service will be held at Evangelical Free Church, February 16, 2018 at 12 p.m., followed by a graveside military presentation directly following the servive at Lakeside Cemetery, Canon City, CO.

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