Ethel Owen, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother of Walton, passed away on Tuesday, September 14, 2021 surrounded by her loving
family. She was 103 years old.
Ethel was born in Malone, New York on September 16, 1917, the daughter of the late Sylveneus and Edith (Benware) Marlow. Ethel was raised and educated in Lyon Mountain, New York. She was a graduate of Lyon Mountain High School where she was a star athlete on the girls basketball team and girls track team. In 1937, Ethel was united in marriage to William John Owen. The couple shared a union for forty-five years until William’s passing on June 29, 1992.
Ethel was proud to be a resident of Walton. There was no place like home, 68 North Street, next to Townsend School and no place like Walton. A gentle, caring woman, Ethel was always ready to lend a hand. She believed that it was important to be part of the fabric of the community.
Ethel possessed a stellar work ethic. For decades, she was employed by the Walton Central School District as a custodian and cafeteria aide. During that time, Ethel maintained excellent attendance, was highly dependable and always went “beyond the call of duty”. She loved her job at both Townsend School and Walton High School and considered the staff and students her second family. Her last day of employment was on her eightieth birthday at the Walton High School. The staff and students had a surprise birthday celebration for her. Ethel never forgot that day and treasured its memories. After her retirement, it was part of Ethel’s daily ritual to sit at her kitchen window and observe the children arriving at Townsend School in the morning and then watch the children leave the school in the afternoon.
Ethel was a devout Catholic. She was a parishioner of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and an active member of its Alter Rosary Society. Ethel also voluntarily washed and ironed the alter cloths and priest’s garments for many years. She was very honored to be chosen by the parish to be part of the Feast of Corpus Christi celebration every year. Ethel would meticulously prepare her front lawn for an altar to be set up as part of the Eucharistic procession’s route. The procession would stop at the altar for Benediction.
Ethel was a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary and held the office of chaplain for many years. She enjoyed helping at their numerous dinners and did so until she was well into her nineties. Ethel was famous for her date filled cookies and her baking soda biscuits. She was one of the four members of the American Legion Auxiliary that were flag bearers during Memorial Day services at the World War II memorial on Stockton Avenue for several years. Ethel also volunteered at the Walton Food Pantry and was a member of the Walton Historical Society.
Ethel enjoyed going for rides around the area, going out to eat and especially enjoyed visiting with her friends and neighbors. A little known fact about Ethel was that she was an avid Syracuse University basketball fan. She could recite every team member’s name, grade, position on the team and their average points scored. Ethel never missed a Syracuse University basketball game on TV.
Ethel was a true homemaker in every aspect of her family’s life. She possessed a great love for her family. Ethel especially enjoyed the special bond that she shared with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was her happiest whenever she spent time with them.
Ethel is survived by her daughter, Mary Owen Hall of Camden, New York and her son, William Owen and daughter-in-law, Cindy of Brookfield, New York as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Hazel Owen LaBounty and several nieces and nephews.
Ethel’s long life well lived was a precious gift of faith, hope, strength and grace. She was truly blessed and cherished each day. Ethel’s family would like to thank everyone who touched Ethel’s life and made her smile.
Calling hours to which relatives and friends are invited to attend will be held on Saturday, September 25, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend Street in Walton. A graveside service will follow at Walton Cemetery, 55 Fancher Avenue, Walton, with the Rev. Edward Golding officiating.
In lieu of flowers, consider memorial contributions to the Walton American Legion Auxiliary, 10 Park Street, Walton, NY 13856.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Courtney Funeral Home, Walton. To leave a message of peace and comfort for Ethel’s family, visit her online tribute at www.courtneyfh.com
