Robert W. Owens

Robert Wayne "Bob" Owens, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on July 12, 2026, in North Ft. Myers, Florida. Born on November 5, 1935, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Bob lived a life filled with adventure, service, and love.

Bob proudly served his country in the United States military. He began his journey with two years in the U.S. Navy Reserves before transitioning to the U.S. Air Force. During his time in the Air Force, he worked in base operations scheduling flights and had the opportunity to serve in various locations around the world. Among his favorite assignments were Frabisher Bay, Baffin Island in Canada; Columbus, Indiana; and RAF Bentwaters in England. His dedication to his duties and his enjoyment of serving left an indelible mark on those who served alongside him.

Beyond his military career, Bob pursued a variety of passions that reflected his adventurous spirit and kind heart. He had a deep love for animals, particularly cats, often bringing home strays and declaring that there was never an unlovable cat. He leaves behind two cherished feline companions, Little One and Yodie. Bob also had a fascination with aquatic life and maintained vibrant fish tanks filled with colorful fish. In his younger years, he even owned a fish shop where he shared this passion with others. His love for flight extended beyond his military service; he enjoyed flying ultralight planes and even survived a crash during one of his daring adventures. Additionally, he built model planes and spent countless hours at an old runway flying them with friends. Family was at the heart of Bob’s life.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Wilma Owens; daughters Kathy Owens (David), Tina Owens Preiser, Teresa Benforado (Brad), and Marcia Hutto (David); sons Robert C. Owens and Woodie Rogers; grandchildren Jami Russell, Jonathan Preiser (Jammie), Heather Rogers, Dani Rogers, Tiler Blair Hood, Dylan Owen Hood (Nakice), Samantha Azevedo (Devin), Jessica Hutto, Jacob Hutto; as well as 14 great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy.

Bob’s legacy is one of service to others and a zest for life that inspired everyone who knew him. His memory will live on through the stories shared by family and friends and through the many lives he touched during his remarkable journey. May Robert Wayne "Bob" Owens rest in peace as those who loved him find comfort in their cherished memories of him.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on August 1, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Hope Hospice House 2430 Diplomat Parkway E. Cape Coral.