Obituary

Clifford (Skip) J. Owens Sr., 92, of East Liverpool, OH, passed away on Friday, August 1, 2025, in CrossRoads of Beaver Creek in East Liverpool. Born in Koppel, PA on January 8, 1933, he was the son of the late William H. and Grace A. (Law) Owens Jr.

He enlisted in the US Navy in 1953 and served for 4 years as a Radio Operator during the Korean War.

Cliff was a member of the Enon Valley Masonic Lodge #411 as well as the Moose’s Club in Leesburg, FL. He worked as a steel mill worker and truck driver in addition to many other hats throughout his early working years that included a West Mayfield police officer and Gulf Gas station owner. In 1987, he and his beloved wife Rosie relocated to Wildwood, FL, where they would spend the next 38 years. 

Cliff made the most of his retirement on the golf course and worked for several years as a Certified Master Club Builder in a pro shop. He spent countless hours in his woodworking shop with his pipe, carefully handcrafting custom woodworking pieces to sell at the local flea market and to bestow on his family. Every grandchild received a handcrafted riding hobby horse. 

Clif could make just about anything, but he was sure to make you laugh with his quiet, off the cuff remarks. 

In addition to his parents, Cliff was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Rosetta (DeNome) Owens; and his sister, Gail A. Malmquist.

Cliff is survived by his children, Susan (Ralph) Winters and Clifford (Susan) Owens Jr.; grandchildren, Stephen (Aenoy) Safran, Lori (Chad) Browning, Zachary (John) Owens, Cole (Kelly Hartwick) Winters, and Molly (Cody) Suehr; and great-grandchildren, Arthur Safran, Logan Safran, Ethan Browning, Ayla Browning, and Mason Suehr.

After nearly 40 years away, Skip returned home for the final year and a half of his life to be surrounded by his loving family. Even at 92, he could still be found riding the golf course with his grandson. These memories made with him will be cherished greatly.

Per Clifford’s wishes, there will be no public visitation.

A combined memorial service for Clifford and Rosetta will be held on Thursday August 14th, 2025 at 12:00 PM (Noon) at Sylvania Hills Memorial Gardens, 273 PA-68, Rochester, PA 15074, where interment will take place. 

All arrangements were entrusted to the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road Beaver Falls, PA 15010, who was honored to care for Clifford and his family.