Owen moved to Toronto in 1967 where he began his career and family. He married Eileen McManamon (nee Sullivan) and had two children, Catharine, and Michael.
In 1996 he began a new chapter in his life with Mary Houston and her two children Eric and Barry and was loved by a blended family.
Owen left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone he met during his life’s journey which was continually affirmed by all those that knew him.
One of his greatest legacies was the ability to find the good in everyone. He encouraged people to be the best versions of themselves. He was a mentor, coach, and fervent supporter of anyone within his midst. Leading by example, he gave his best as a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, friend, and leader. Owen was a spiritual person, and many described him as an old soul. Some of his passions included being in, and on the water, hiking, listening to music and enjoying a glass of wine or Jamieson by the fire. Owen loved the challenge and camaraderie of many sports.
Owen was kind, compassionate, had a great sense of humour and was altogether an exceptional man.
By the end of his illustrious career, Owen was regarded as a highly respected and successful business leader. He had worked his way from mailroom at CGE to President and CEO of Pennzoil Quaker State.
Upon retirement, Owen and Mary travelled to many parts of the world continuing along the way to make new connections abroad. They moved to the Bruce Peninsula where they built their dream home and enjoyed the gifts of nature. Unfortunately, life took a turn with his health, and they moved to a vibrant and supportive community in Guelph. Owen remained immensely proud of his Irish heritage throughout his life.
Owen is remembered and loved by his cherished wife Mary (Houston), his daughter Catharine Fox (w/Michael fox), granddaughter Ava, son Michael McManamon, stepson Eric Houston (w/ Melissa Houston), grandson Aidan, stepson Barry Houston, brother Sean McManamon, former wife and mother of his children Eileen McManamon, nephew Sean Pantic and brother-in-law Thomo Pantic, nieces and nephews in the U.S., England, and Ireland. Owen was loved by those who pre-deceased him including his parents John and Mary McManamon (nee Hennigan), sister Mary Ruane, sister Barbara Unruh, sister Pat Pantic, father-in-law Bill Corbett and his favourite dog Buddy.
A memorial Mass will be held at the Basilica of Our Lady, 28 Norfolk St., Guelph on Saturday April 20, 2024, at 11:30 am. Immediately following a reception to celebrate Owen’s life will be held at the Village by the Arboretum Community Centre, 221 Stone Rd. E., Guelph (across from the University of Guelph, parking available by the clock tower).
Arrangements entrusted to WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL (519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com).
Memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Society would be appreciated.
A tree will be planted in memory of Owen McManamon in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.