GLENWOOD, Minn. (KFGO WCCO Radio) – Hundreds of people traveled to Glenwood to pay respect to Deputy Josh Owen on Saturday morning.
One by one, fellow law enforcement filed into the Minnewaska high school gymnasium to say farewell to Owen. A flag was draped over the 44-year-old’s casket, while his wife Shannon and son Rylan stood nearby.
“Isn’t it a blessing this building can’t even hold the love we have for Josh,” said Pope County Chief Sheriff’s Deputy Nathan Brecht.
Brecht paid tribute to Owen. The officer had been with the department since 2009. He recalled his distinctive laugh, his disdain for paperwork and his love for the night shift.
“He’s strong, his presence brought a sense of calm. You just felt everything was going to be ok when you were around Josh,” Brecht said.
His platoon leader in the National Guard shared a similar sentiment. They spent 22 months deployed together.
“Josh was a hardworking common-sense individual, understood the responsibilities of an NCO and brought plenty of experience to our team,” Lt. Col Jon Anderson said.
Anderson told stories of his heroism. There were lighter months and a message to his family.
“There will be times you’ll feel alone, times you feel cheated but at those times please remember this room. And remember all the people that are here, not just to honor your father. They’re here to support you and your mother as you transition life without your father,” Anderson said.
A devoted husband and father, his family says he touched everyone he met, and acted selflessly in each encounter.
“It’s so easy to be cynical and there were undoubtedly people who never came around, but Josh never stopped trying. Such a beautiful legacy he leaves us,” cousin Josh Palmateer said.
A legacy many say they’ll hold near and will carry on in his name.
“I’m going to remember Josh every time another dispatcher or coworker tells me that they love me and that I love them. I’ve decided I’m going to do that from now on,” Brecht said.
Deputy Owen’s family said the outpouring of love will be remembered forever.
