Foster G. Owen, 93, of Lincoln, retired professor of animal science, died Nov. 13.
Owen served 33 years at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, joining the Department of Animal Science in 1957. His teaching and research career specialized in dairy nutrition.
Owen was born Jan. 24, 1926 to James and Clara (Bookout) Owen in Flat Creek, Alabama, a mining town near Birmingham. The Owenses returned to the family farm in Tuscaloosa County when the Great Depression hit.
Life on the farm made a lasting impression on Owen, shaping his character and becoming a springboard to a lifelong career in agriculture.
After high school, Owen enlisted and was accepted into the U.S. Navy’s college education program. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Sciences at Auburn University in 1948 before completing a doctorate from Iowa State University.
On Dec. 23, 1950 — days before he reported for active duty in the Navy — Owen married Bobbye Jean in a ceremony planned in a week. Their vows began a 69-year marriage.
Owen taught and led research at Nebraska from 1957 to 1990. Following his long career as a Husker, the Owenses retired to Auburn, Alabama.
In retirement, Owen participated in coffee clubs and investment groups. He remained involved in a variety of service clubs and organizations, including the Sunrise Kiwanis Club, St. Marks Seekers Fellowship Group, Lincoln Continentals Chorus, Auburn University Academy of Lifelong Learners, and the Democratic Club of Lee County, Alabama.
Owen is survived by his wife; children, Richard and Jackie Owen of Orlando, Florida, Sherri and Michael Bossard, Mike and Carole Owen, and David and Kristin Owen, all of Lincoln; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, James Owen and Charles Owen; and, sister, Harriet Jane Owen-Smith.
Visitation will be noon to 8 p.m. Nov. 21 at Wyuka Funeral Home, 3600 O St. The family will attend from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Nov. 22 at St. Marks United Methodist Church, 8550 Pioneers Blvd. A luncheon at the church will follow the service and interment will be at 2 p.m. at Wyuka Cemetery.
Memorials are requested to St. Marks United Methodist Church.
