Obituary for David Tyler Owen

David Tyler Owen, 73, of Centerville, formerly of Granger, passed away peacefully at Kavanaugh House Hospice on Monday, April 1, 2024, after a four-year battle with cancer with his wife Deb at his side.  He was a devoted husband of 51 years to Deb, loving father to Chad (Melissa) and April Owen, doting grandfather to Clara and Maria Owen, brother to Doug Owen, and friend to many.

Visitation for Dave will be Friday, April 5, from 9:00AM until the time of Mass at 10:00AM at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, at 2926 Beaver Avenue, Des Moines.

Dave was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on June 26, 1951 to Don and Marabell (Ty) Owen.  He graduated from Hoover High School in 1969. On August 5, 1972, he married Deb (Fath) Owen at Holy Trinity Church in Des Moines. In the footsteps of his grandfather Ted Owen, he entered into the Local Union 33 Plumbing and Steamfitters Apprenticeship Program.  In 2006 Dave earned a Bachelor of Arts in Labor Education from The National Labor College in Baltimore, Maryland.  

Dave was proud to be a life-time member of Local 33 Plumbers and Steamfitters for 51yrs, union president and director of Training for 12 years until his retirement in 2009. Andy Roberts, Business Manager of the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 33 had this to say about Dave. “Brother Owen’s legacy will forever be remembered as the Director of the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 33’s Joint Apprenticeship Training Program.  His dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on countless apprentices who have benefited from his guidance and mentorship.  Brother Owen’s contributions extend beyond Local 33, as he initiated the very first day school registered apprenticeship program within the United Association. His innovative approach to education has shaped the future of the building trades industry and inspired generations of apprentices to strive for excellence.”

Outside of work, the family farm on Lake Rathbun was one of Dave’s favorite places to be. He loved to fish, hunt, water ski, and socialize with friends and family. Dave was a fun-loving, quick-witted man. He always enjoyed sharing a good story or hearing one.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Ty Owen.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Local Union 33 JATC Apprenticeship Program or Kavanaugh House Hospice in Des Moines.