Richard Specht Owens, 95, of Girard, formerly of Harvel, died on Saturday afternoon, Aug. 29, 2026, at Carlinville Rehab and Health Care in Carlinville.
A private graveside service will be conducted at Harvel Cemetery, with burial to follow.
Mr. Owens was born July 22, 1931, in Harvel, a son of Elmer Owens and Anne (Specht) Owens. He graduated from Raymond High School with the class of 1949. He married Shirley Brune on March 24, 1958, in Springfield.
He was a member of the Army serving during the Korean War where he was awarded three Bronze Stars. He then continued to serve the public and keep the peace as an Illinois State Police officer and retired after many years of service.
Throughout his life, Mr. Owens was a farmer who took pride in cultivating bountiful crops. He was also a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Harvel. When not working and caring for others he enjoyed hunting, fishing and would travel to Florida for the winter.
Mr. Owens is survived by his wife, Shirley Owens of Girard; daughter, Dorhn (John) Ganson of Easton; son, Kraig (Peggy) Owens of O’Fallon, MO; granddaughter, Mallorie (William) Hidalgo; grandson, Grant (Lauren) Owens; and two great-grandchildren, John and James Owens.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, William Owens.
Memorials may be made to Girard Fire and Rescue.
Please visit www.davisandersonfuneralhome.com to leave condolences or light a candle in his memory. Davis-Anderson Funeral Home in Girard is in charge of arrangements.
