Terry Owen, 62, of Gates, NY passed away on April 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and a life lived larger than most.

While his time on this earth was not nearly long enough for those who loved him, Terry lived with a fullness, generosity, and joy that many never achieve in a lifetime.

Terry was truly bigger than life. He had a rare gift for connection, a way of making everyone feel like they were his best friend. And for many, he truly was. His presence was electric, his humor unmistakable, and his impact immeasurable. He positively influenced more people than can ever be counted, often without even realizing it.

Terry’s professional journey reflected both his creativity and curiosity. He began his career in radio, where his voice and personality first found an audience. That path led him into website development and technology, where his creativity and love of innovation flourished. Eventually, he found his way back to radio, bringing his career full circle, before retiring in 2025.

Above all else, Terry greatest role – his most cherished title – was Dad. His children were his world. He didn’t just love them, he celebrated them. Whether it was childhood playground hopping, turning off TV displays in stores with a “secret” remote, filling the house with silly string, intense nerf wars or reading stories he had written just for them, Terry made sure their lives were filled with wonder, laughter, and unforgettable memories. He lit up whenever he talked about them, and he talked about them often. His pride for them showed in every story, every smile, and every proud moment he shared.

Terry loved music of all kinds, binge-watching his favorite shows, and had a lifelong passion for both Star Trek and Superman. After all, Terry was a super man in his own right. He also loved gadgets, technology, and anything that sparked curiosity. A phenomenal writer and sharp dresser, Terry had a keen eye for detail and style, along with a legendary sense of humor. His love for dad jokes was unmatched; he proudly posted them on Facebook, often with the goal of trying to “break the algorithm of negativity.” Terry also had a soft spot for dogs-especially his beloved companions Nashville, River, and Huckleberry. He could often be found watching and sharing dog videos, spreading smiles one TikTok at a time because joy, to Terry, was meant to be passed along.

Some of Terry’s happiest moments were spent at the family cottage, where summer weekends were filled with togetherness, laughter, conversation, and memories that will live on forever. Those gatherings, simple and full of love, meant everything to him. Thursday nights laughing with “the guys,” traveling to Nashville with friends, and hosting unforgettable theme parties rounded out a life rich in friendship and fun.

Terry was a motivational speaker on many occasions, always centering his message around the belief that “Attitude is Everything.” He didn’t just say it-he lived it. He was also an ordained officiant and genuinely enjoyed uniting couples in love, celebrating new beginnings, and sharing in moments of lifelong commitment.

Terry was lovingly known for showing up for his great-nieces and nephews with Pez dispensers – a small token that carried big joy. Terry was also eagerly anticipating his newest role: grandfather. The excitement in his eyes when he spoke about the baby arriving this fall rivaled that of a child on Christmas morning – one of his favorite holidays, alongside Halloween.

Terry was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Joan Owen, along with his brother-in-law Cory Doty.

He is survived by his children, Tyler (Kate) Owen and Sarah (Rick) Izzo; his brother, Jeff (Blanca) Owen and his sister, Kim Doty. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews Scott (Jess), Jennifer (Mike), Indira (Greg), Spenser, and Carter; and his great-nieces and nephews Sebastian, Haley, Alma, Jackson, and Emma. Terry is also survived by his lifelong and forever best friend, Nancy Geraci.

Calling Hours will be held at Bartolomeo & Perotto Funeral Home, Greece, NY, on Sunday, April 12th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., with closing remarks beginning at 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Verona Street Animal Society, 184 Verona Street, Rochester, NY 14608 in Terry’s memory.

Terry Owen lived loudly, loved deeply, laughed often, and showed all of us how powerful a positive attitude can be. Afterall, “Attitude is Everything.” His legacy lives on in his children, his family, his friends, and in every moment, we choose kindness, laughter, and joy because that’s exactly how Terry lived. His absence leaves an unimaginable void, but his spirit, his stories, his jokes, his lessons, and his love will live on in every life he touched. If you knew Terry, you laughed with him. If you loved Terry, you were loved deeply in return. In honor of Terry, take a moment to share a laugh, tell a joke, hug your people a little tighter, and remember: “Attitude is Everything.”