Owen Jones Lunt, aged 93, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025. He was born on September 11, 1931, in Virden, New Mexico—a small, close-knit town where he was surrounded by siblings, uncles, aunts, and cousins. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints was at the heart of the community, and Owen remained a devoted member throughout his life. His lifelong commitments—faith, family, and service—were shaped by those early years.

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At the age of 15, Owen miraculously survived a devastating accident in which he was severely burned over most of his body. Though he carried the physical scars for the rest of his life, he never allowed them—or any trial—to define his spirit or limit his potential. His strength was bolstered by the love and kindness of his family and the Virden community, who never treated him differently despite the visible signs of his injuries. In time, what had once seemed a tragedy became an enormous blessing: his injuries exempted him from the Korean War draft, enabling him to serve a mission for the Church in the North Central States—an experience that became foundational to his life and faith.

Owen later moved to Utah to attend the University of Utah. He fell in love with the rugged terrain and iconic red rock formations of southern Utah, visiting it with family and friends countless times over the years and extensively exploring the region’s backroads, trails and rivers. After graduating with a degree in accounting, he was hired as the office manager at Nelson Brothers Construction, where he remained his entire career. On May 17, 1966, Owen married Deanna Rose Armstrong of Basalt, Idaho. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and selfless service to their church and community.

Owen always had a special appreciation for children and youth who resonated with his quick smile and genuine interest in them. He served faithfully and joyfully in a variety of church callings, always willing to step into any role where he was needed. His dedication to church service was evident in his later years, when he continued to serve as a ward librarian into his 90s. With Deanna as his companion, Owen fulfilled missions in Malaysia, at the Westminster College Institute of Religion, and at the Bishop’s Storehouse in Salt Lake City.

He was never happier than when he was ministering to others—especially the young and the elderly. Known for his infectious smile and warm demeanor, Owen radiated kindness, acceptance, and genuine interest in everyone he met, regardless of background or circumstance. In his later years, he found deep fulfillment in temple service and great joy in visiting places he had once only dreamed of as a child. A passionate gardener and amateur botanist, he spent many happy hours tending his large vegetable garden and fruit trees.

Owen is survived by Deanna, his beloved wife of 59 years; his children Greg (Jaleen), Troy (Amy), Mark (Janice), Drew, and Andrea; his brothers Tim and Terry; 15 grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his half-brother Owen Raynal, and his sisters Mae, Mary, and Vefa.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Val Verda 2nd Ward Chapel at 3317 S 800 W in Bountiful, Utah, preceded by a viewing from 9:30 to 10:30. A viewing will also take place on Friday, June 13th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108.