Gary Owens, long time resident of Gilroy, CA, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2025 at the age of 79.

Gary's early years were spent in the idyllic town of Blue Lake in Humboldt County, California, a place that undoubtedly nurtured his life long love of the outdoors and sports. He attended St. Bernard's High School in Eureka where he was a four-sport athlete. He continued his studies at Humboldt State University working towards a degree in education and competing in basketball, baseball. His dedication and skill on the baseball diamond were particularly notable, leading him to a successful four-year stint as a shortstop for the esteemed Humboldt Crabs, culminating in an appearance at the Semi-pro World Series.

It was at Humboldt State University where he met his wife, Judy. After college, Gary and Judy moved to Gilroy to begin their teaching careers in Morgan Hill Unified School District with Gary teaching at Britton Middle School and Judy teaching at P.A. Walsh Elementary School. For over 30 years, Gary dedicated his professional life to shaping young minds and bodies as a P.E. teacher and coach. In addition to teaching and coaching at Britton, Gary coached basketball at Live Oak High School for many years, mentoring countless student-athletes and instilling in them the values of teamwork and perseverance .

Beyond his dedication to education and coaching, Gary was an avid sports enthusiast with a keen interest in sports memorabilia. He was a well-known sports card collector and dealer, connecting with fellow enthusiasts and sharing his knowledge and passion for the history of sports.

After retiring from teaching, Gary and Judy traveled the world together making new friends and creating new memories. Their most recent trip was to Hawaii last summer for the wedding of their granddaughter, Lexi.

Gary's legacy will live on through his wife of 56 years, Judy, his sons, Derek and Darren (Katrina), and his four grandchildren, Justin, Lexi, Vivienne and Cameron. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former students, athletes and all who had the good fortune of knowing him