Lonnie Gene Owens

Lonnie Gene Owens, 65, of Harshaw, passed away from cancer on January 10, 2025 at his home with his family by his side. He was born in Rhinelander on August 5, 1959 to Robert and Jean Owens (Bruyette).

Lonnie met his, as he would tell it, “love at first sight” Michelle DeBrock in 1981 and they married on June 22, 1985. Their mutual love of the outdoors provided for many years of hunting, fishing, and enjoying outdoor activities together and with family and friends. The DeBrock family cabin property in northwestern Wisconsin is where Lonnie and Michelle spent most of their free time and passed down their love of the outdoors to their son and grandchildren. In the last 44 years Lonnie could always be seen doing many projects on this property. After Michelle's retirement from the Department of Natural Resources in 2019, they spent most of 7 months out of a year living at the cabin.

Lonnie was considered by family and friends to be a “Jack of all trades”, as he could fix and do anything. Lonnie was a long-time well driller, a logger, landscaper, builder, and stone mason. He especially enjoyed working with his “big boy” toys like his skidsteer and the latest excavator attachment. Many friends and family will remember Lonnie as being there for them if they asked. If he had the tools, equipment, or knowledge, he would be the first to offer help.

Lonnie is survived by his wife Michelle DeBrock-Owens, Harshaw; son Nicholas, Harshaw and grandchildren Cecilia and Corvan (who called him “Papa”); son Mathew, Madison; sisters Kelly Owens Tromp and Stacy Robinson, Rhinelander; brothers-in-law Michael (Jill) DeBrock, Eau Claire, and Marc DeBrock, McNaughton; nieces and nephews and many dear friends who significantly impacted his life. 

He was preceeded in death by his parents.

Lonnie has requested to be cremated and his ashes to be placed on the cabin property and for loved ones not to mourn but to celebrate his life. 

A “Celebration of Life” for local family and friends will take place at Ten Point Bar and Grill in Harshaw shortly after his death. The final resting place of his ashes at the cabin will take place at a later date. 

You may leave your private condolences for the Owens family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414) is serving the Owens family.