Owen E. Minear, 94, of Normal, Ill., died at 4:16 p.m. Saturday Jan. 26, 2013, at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center in Normal.

Owen was born Dec. 9, 1918, in Billings, Mont., the son of Edward James and Lottie Gleason Minear. He was raised in Twin Lakes. Marcella Boldt Minear was his beloved wife and she preceded him in death after 49 years of marriage.

Surviving are three sons, Paul Minear of Normal, Michael Minear of Waterford, Mich., and Philip Minear of East Peoria, Ill.; two grandchildren, Christine (Todd) Collum of Waterford, Mich., and Michael A. Minear of Ft. Myers, Fla.; one great-grandchild; two brothers, James Minear of Albert Lea and Delisle Minear of Coon Rapids.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Forrest, Nevan and Eugene.

Owen served his country for nearly 27 years with the Air Force. He served throughout World War II, the Korean War, and during part of the Vietnam War. After retiring from the Air Force, he worked for Illinois State University for many years. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Normal, and had recently moved to Meadows Mennonite Retirement Home in Chenoa, Ill.

Owen didn’t know the meaning of the word stranger – people were drawn to his infectious smile and easy humor. He was blessed with many good friends. He will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at the First United Methodist Church in Normal. East Lawn Funeral Home in Bloomington is assisting the family with cremation arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Normal, 211 N. School St., Normal, IL 61761.

Condolences or remembrances may be shared at www.eastlawn-bloomington.com.