Obituary of Howard Lee Owen
Howard Lee Owen
July 25, 1927-May 10, 2025
Known for his big heart and creative spirit, Howard Lee Owen died on May 10th, 2025, surrounded by family in his Perth Ontario home. Throughout his generous 97 years, Howard enjoyed countless eras, leaving a ripple and a smile with everyone he met. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Howard survived polio, no doubt thanks to his dear mother Margaret, who massaged his legs until he got well. As a result, Howard would remain remarkably spry well into his nineties, tending to his garden and household tasks with his trademark fastidiousness. “Just leave it, I’ll do it!” he would call to his loved ones again and again, especially when it came to loading the dishwasher.
In 1940, the family moved to a farm near Mount Washington, Kentucky. There, Howard and his sister Doris learned the joys of connecting with the land, transforming hard work into delicious food, and appreciating the gifts of each day, however small.
When Howard was in grade four, he gave a class presentation on worldwide photographs from National Geographic. Fascinated by the art form, he discovered his true calling in photography. He went on to complete his studies at Baltimore’s Practical School of Photography. His glittering career began with military service, where he served as an official U.S. Army Photographer. After his honorable discharge, he built a name for himself in New York City, starting with small newspaper contracts. By 1959, he had left the city and opened his own studio, first in Clifton, New Jersey, and later moving to a larger space in Fairfield. With major clients like Johnson & Johnson, the business evolved into Photographic House—a bustling operation with a growing team and steady stream of high-profile projects. Throughout his career, Howard never lost his sense of awe for “the magic photography renders to every aspect of our lives.” These years also brought the births of his children, Douglas and Kathy, marking the start of Howard’s journey as a father.
Fast forward to the early eighties. On an assignment in Canada, Howard met his beloved second wife, Mary. In a chapter of new beginnings, he embraced his role as bonus father to Sue, Val, and John, and cherished grandpa to Mary's growing pile of grandchildren, adding to his own future collection. “Ho and Mo” moved first to Clifton, New Jersey, then Boonton. Together, they created Studio Associates, their wildly successful Fairfield photography business. In and out of the office, the charismatic couple became mildly famous for their uncanny ability to make friends and tell stories wherever they went. Their Boonton years sparkled with exciting trips to the city, memorable visits from family, and rousing performances in their church choir—long live the “Presbyairs.”
Off to Canada, the couple retired to the small-town “metropolis” of Perth, Ontario. Their riverside oasis came with Howard’s standing invitation to “stop by when you’re in the neighbourhood.” A popular pair, Howard and Mary constantly welcomed friends and family from near and far. Summer visitors were treated to tours of their luscious garden, wrapped up with legendary tomato sandwiches. Larger celebrations culminated in thrilling photoshoots, with Howard pressing the button and dashing to pose with the crowd.
His love for photography never faltered. In Perth, Howard co-founded the Lanark County Camera Club, embracing digital technology with the same curiosity that once fueled his darkroom days. Not surprisingly, Howard served a stint as president. Even in retirement, Howard continued to teach, learn, and chase that perfect shot.
Howard leaves behind a vast web of family whom he held close to his heart: his adored wife Mary Owen; his children—son Douglas and daughter-in-law Sissy, and his daughter Kathy; his grandchildren—DJ, Samantha, Devon, and Dylan; his great-grandchildren—Zoey, William, Wade, and Rae Lynn; his nieces, nephews, and cousins; and of course, his Adamson-Leavitt relatives: Mary's children—Susan, Valerie, and John; grandchildren—Andrew, Taes, Alex, Erica, Jennifer, Jeffery, and Caitlin; and great-grandchildren—Jackson, Will, Charlotte, Daphne, Nolan, Sommer, and Grant. He is predeceased by his parents, Howard Lee Owen Sr. and Jennie Margaret Owen, and his sister Doris. Howard's many friends and fans will miss him dearly.
It was important to Howard to live out his final days at home. The family is thankful to everyone who helped make that happen. Big gratitude to Val, Joel, Martina, Sheila, Lydia, Brian, Dr. Peter Cunniffe, and the kind-hearted team of nurses and PSWs whom Howard was always so happy to see. During his last few weeks, Howard recalled his memories with fondness, content and at peace with a life well lived. As he often said, “Don’t say it hasn’t been nice—it’s been wonderful.”
A service will be held at Blair & Son Funeral Home, 15 Gore St. West, Perth, on Friday, May 30th, 2025 at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, loved ones are encouraged to make a donation to The Table Community Food Centre or YAK Youth Services.
(Links to charities: https://www.thetablecfc.org/ https://yakyouth.ca/ )
