William L “Billy” Owens, age 87, of Bridgewater, formerly of Brockton, died on June 10, 2024 at the VA Medical Center surrounded by his family. Billy was the husband of Barbara A. (Thomas) Owens. Born in Brockton, he was the son of the late John F and Matilda Owens; Bill grew up on the east side of Brockton which he thought was the “best side.”
While Bill attended Brockton High School, he played football and baseball. Following his graduation in 1954, he was drafted into the Army. Upon his discharge, he focused on his education and his career in technology. He studied hard and rose through the ranks the hard way, accomplishing what he set out to do. Bill retired from Recon Optical Inc., Barrington, IL as President and CEO. Although his career took him all over the world, his heart remained in Brockton.
Following his retirement, Bill enjoyed playing golf and gardening. Throughout his lifetime, his Catholic faith was always very important to him. Even in his teen years he was very involved with St Colman’s CYO. Bill was a devoted family man. Nothing made him happier than being around his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Bill was the loving father with a big heart of John Owens of St. Petersburg, FL, Jackie Connolly and her husband Michael of Bridgewater and was sadly preceded in death by his daughter Joni (Power) Sutter. He was the proud grandfather of Melissa Erkenswick of WA, Kerri Chaffee of Franklin, Jake Sutter of IL, Sami Sutter of FL, Megan Owens of FL, John Owens of Boston, William Owens of RI, Kayla DeMello of Acushnet, Michael Connolly of Middleboro, Jack Connolly of Bridgewater and the late Christina Power. He was the great grandfather of 9. Bill was the brother of Maureen Puffer of Brockton and the late Barbara Capen and the late Kathleen Herbert. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
All are welcome to gather, honor and remember Bill at a Funeral Mass which will be celebrated at 10am on Thursday, June 20 at Christ the King Church, 54 Lyman Street, Brockton, followed by burial in Calvary Cemetery. Visiting Hours are omitted.
Donations in memory of Bill may be made to either Shriners Children’s Hospital or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.