Bridgnorth community stalwart and fundraiser dies at 89
The president of the Bridgnorth Arts Society has died at the age of 89.
Robert Owen, who lived in Pattingham, was well-known within the community for his charity work, raising thousands of pounds for the NSPCC and Parkinson's Society. He was also chairman of the village Probus Club.
Mr Owen, known as Bob, was born in Wolverhampton and had been married to Betty for 64 years.
His daughter Judith Harvey said he would be sadly missed. "He was such a caring man and he got a lot of joy from giving, and also joining community groups," she said.
"My mum has received so many letters and messages about him. He had such a good sense of humour.
"He was generous and a true gentleman."
Mr Owen worked as an architect for Dudley Council for 14 years before becoming self-employed in 1964.
He retired about 20 years ago and it was then he took up his true passion for art, and was a member of art societies in Wolverhampton and Bridgnorth.
He also for a few years ran a Thursday morning art class in Pattingham village hall for adults, and profits he made from this, and selling his artwork in exhibitions, was donated to charity.
He was also keen on jazz and classical music, and was the past chairman of Pattingham Probus Club.
He also enjoyed playing the drums and was a member of Pattingham Drama Group.
He went to Wolverhampton Grammar School and in his younger days was a keen car rallyist.
Mrs Harvey said her father had died of prostate cancer on November 19 at New Cross Hospital. His funeral was held at Telford Crematorium on Monday.
He also leaves a son, Nigel, and three grandchildren.
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