Leland Edward Owen of Blackwell, Oklahoma, died Saturday evening, July 12, 2014, at his residence at the age of 72.

Leland Edward Owen was born on November 19, 1941, in Eufaula, Oklahoma, to Ernest and Oleta Faye (Ayers) Owen. His family moved to Blackwell when he was in seventh grade and after high school he enlisted in the Army National Guard. Upon leaving the military, he moved to Amarillo, Texas, for several months, before returning to Blackwell. He began working for his father at Owen and Son Dirt Contractors, eventually taking over the business. He was a member of the Blackwell Church of Christ and Blackwell Elks Club. He enjoyed hunting and doing anything in the outdoors and eating at Bob's Grill.

He is survived by one son, Derry Owen and wife Desiree of Purcell, Oklahoma; one grandson, Payte Owen of Purcell, Oklahoma; two step grandsons, Payton Bowman and Brody Idleman of Purcell, Oklahoma; two sisters, Lefaye Edgington of Houston, Texas, and Edith Dale Avance of Rowlett, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service is scheduled for 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 16th in the Blackwell Church of Christ with Lanny Jobe officiating. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery.