John Thomas “Tom” Owens, II

 John Thomas “Tom” Owens, II, age 79, a lifelong resident of Bartholomew County, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.

Tom was born on April 18, 1947, in Columbus, Indiana. He graduated from Columbus High School in 1965, where he notably took his future wife, Pegi, to the prom. He pursued higher education at Ball State University and later graduated from Vincennes University. Tom proudly served his country and state, eventually retiring from the Indiana National Guard.

An entrepreneur at heart, Tom owned and operated various businesses over the years, most notably the Carousel Pony Company. He also dedicated his time to the community as a school bus driver and substitute teacher. His commitment to public service led him to serve two terms as the Bartholomew County Assessor from 2002 to 2010. Tom was a faithful member of St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Waymansville.

Tom literally grew up at the Walesboro Airport (now Columbus Municipal Airport), a unique childhood that sparked a lifelong passion for aviation. As a licensed pilot, he spent many years as a dedicated member of the Quiet Birdmen (QB) aviation fraternity.

He was also a passionate animal lover who cared for a sprawling array of creatures throughout his life, including cats, dogs, goats, donkeys, horses, and even a llama. One of his greatest sources of joy and pride was raising horses for his granddaughter to show. When he wasn’t tending to animals or flying, Tom enjoyed fishing, golfing, spending time with his family, and wintering in the warm Tampa, Florida area.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Pegi Owens, whom he married on September 19, 1997, decades after their high school prom date. He is also survived by his daughters, Theresa (John) Cox, Amy Warner, and Jennifer (Gary Gardner) Milan; his grandchildren, Madison Cox, Maya Cox, John Cox III, Hannah Milan, Larissa (Matt) Hicks, and Kayleigh (Travis) Shirley; his great-grandchild, Henley Milan; bonus granddaughter, Kelsey Pearson; and his former spouse, Judy Richardson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved son, Andrew B. Chapple.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Waymansville. A memorial service will begin immediately following visitation at 3:00 PM with Pastor Erik Sorenson officiating.  Memorials may be made to the Bartholomew County Veteran’s Honor Guard or to the Bartholomew County Humane Society.

Jewell – Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family.  Visit www.JewellRittman.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.