Dennis Owens

Dennis Owens was born on August 14,1947 at Harlem Hospital in New York City, the second of 4 children. He grew up in NYC surrounded by family and graduated from Charles Evans Hughes high school where he was part of multiple championship swim teams.

Dennis often said that he was in 3rd grade when he decided he was going to be a physicist, and even from that young age, he took it upon himself to independently study at the library and pursue this goal. He attended NYCC where he earned his associate’s degree then in 1970 enrolled in Radiology school at Brooklyn Jewish Hospital where on his first day of class he met the woman who would eventually be his wife, Norma Quinones. Both Dennis and Norma have long said that it was not love at first sight, but it was clear to everyone who met them over the years that she was the love of his life and he was the love of hers. Dennis left NY in 1975 to attend Indiana University School of Medicine, where in 1976 he received his Bachelors of Science in Radiologic Technology.

After graduating Dennis went back to NYC, and in 1977 married his gorgeous fiancé in a beautiful large wedding surrounded by friends and family.  Within 3 months of getting married, he received an opportunity to attend Emory University on a full scholarship, so he moved his new bride to Atlanta, and in 1978 he received his Masters of Medical Science. After completing his education, they relocated to Pittsburgh, PA to accept a job as a state inspector for hospital oncology departments. While in Pittsburgh they bought their first home and had 2 children, Jessica and Brian.

In 1984, Dennis accepted a job offer with Eastern Virginia Medical School and moved his family to Virginia Beach, where he enjoyed the last 36 years of his life. Whether at work, at home, or in the community he was known for his unending patience and kind helpfulness. He loved to swim, scuba dive, read about the nature of reality, travel, and drink wine. Dennis often spoke about his adventures in other countries while encouraging others to see the world and experience different cultures. To many like his grandson, Kendal, he was simply "Papi." He treasured his role as a godfather and served as "Uncle D" to a number of nephews and nieces. In addition to his children, he was a father figure in the life of Billy Hassell, Bianca Olivo, and Danielle Olivo. Opening his home and heart to friends and family members kept a smile on his mustached face. Dennis loved spending time with his family and looked forward to large Sunday dinner gatherings, often "questioning" the young adults about when they were getting married and adding more grandchildren. He was known by those close to him for his dry humor and "words of wisdom."  

He was predeceased by his parents Isaac and Idella Owens.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Norma Owens; children, Jessica and Brian Owens, siblings, Carolyn, Robin, and Keith Owens. He is mourned by a vast network of people who were lucky enough to bask in the warmth of his love.

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