Gemma Owen

     Gemma Rae Owen was born on April 19, 1959, to Ann Haner. Gemma grew up in the Woodbine, Iowa area and graduated from there. After graduation, she went into the work force and met the love of her life, Marvin Owen, while working at the Hawkeye Truck Stop in Missouri Valley, Iowa. They got married on December 31, 1986, at the Harrison County Courthouse. They started their career together driving for Wood Valley Trucking. They spent many years, miles, and adventures together on the road. They also loved taking their fur babies along for their travels. Gemma was a talented artist and she loved to write. One day, she and Marv stopped at a store, and she spotted some beautiful yarn. Little did she know this would be the start of a crocheting journey. 

     Gemma made afghans while working, along with table runners, doilies, and an assortment of other projects. She later went to be published in the Crochet World and Handy Hands magazines for her patterns and love of the craft. Even with her illness, she continued to donate many chemo caps and afghans to those in need. When people came over to visit, they often left with one or two pairs of knitted socks. Gemma was the type of person who would tell it like it was, but she was always there to give you a hug, and you always left knowing you were loved.

     Gemma passed away at her home on Friday, July 24, 2026, at the age of 67 years, three months, and five days, surrounded by her husband and family.

    Gemma was preceded in death by her grandparents, Martha and George Haner of Woodbine; her dad, Jim Albers; and sister, Karen Alexander (Jon) of Juneau, Wisconsin. She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Marv Owens of Woodbine; mother, Ann Albers (Frank) of Woodbine; brother, Scott (Diane) Kuhlman of Dunlap, Iowa; sisters, Diane (John) Abib of Atlantic, Iowa and Jeannie (Larry) Engel of Tecumseh, Nebraska; and many other aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, and friends.

    There will be no services at this time. Memorial donations may be made to the Henry Lynch Cancer Center at Immanuel Hospital. Gemma would have loved to see someone carry on her donations of crotched or knitted chemo caps for those in need.