Barbara J. Owen

Barbara Jean Owen, 70, passed away in her home on August 15, 2026.

Barbara was born on June 28 in Barberton, Ohio, to Daniel and Agnes Kupar. She graduated from Barberton High School and worked for more than 40 years in IT Support at Summa Health System before retiring.

Barbara was a devoted mother, sister, aunt, and friend to many. She is survived by her daughter, Samantha; sisters, Diane Elliston and Loretta Cornell (Rob); brother, Daniel Kupar; and many nieces and nephews.

Barb was happiest when surrounded by the people she loved, which meant her home was often the center of many gatherings. She loved to host and knew how to throw a heck of a party! Over the years, she hosted countless Christmas parties, Halloween trick-or-treat gatherings, summer get-togethers on the deck, and elaborate surprise parties. Family and friends remember her home filled with people, laughter, and the kind of energy that made everyone want to stay a little longer.

Much of Barb’s time was spent in her kitchen. With a cold beverage nearby, conversation flowing with close friends and relatives, and Aretha Franklin’s “RESPECT” playing in the background, she could spend hours laughing and carrying on. She had a reputation for making sure no one ever left hungry—her cabbage rolls and homemade iced tea were just a few family favorites and you would often find a meat and cheese tray on the counter for munching.

Nieces and nephews will forever remember the comfort of Aunt Barb’s house. Sleepovers with movies and popcorn, Christmas exchanges surrounded by her timeless decorations and ceramic tree on the kitchen counter, summer days spent swimming and playing in the backyard, and time on the deck listening to music and laughing along the way. These ordinary moments became some of their most treasured memories.

Away from the gatherings, Barb enjoyed playing golf, regularly spending time on the course with close friends and her brother, Dan. During the winter months, a puzzle could almost always be found spread across the dining room table—a familiar sign that she had settled in for the season.

Barbara Jean will always be remembered for being outspoken, stubborn, and wonderfully detail-oriented. She knew what she liked, wasn’t afraid to say what she thought, and had a gift for making even the simplest things just a little more special. Beneath it all was a generous heart and a deep love for the people who mattered most to her.

Her greatest legacy will not be found in her years of work or accomplishments, but in the countless people who sat on her deck, laughed in her kitchen, celebrated in her home, and felt loved because she was there. She created a place where people wanted to gather—and memories that will continue long after she is gone.

A Memorial Service followed by a Celebration of Life will be held on September 26, 2026 starting at 4:00 p.m. at her home. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, laugh, remember, and celebrate the remarkable woman Barbara was. Please bring your favorite side dish or dessert  that reminds you of Barb.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever a part of the family gatherings she loved so much.