Wayne Owens

Douglas Wayne Owens (May 2, 1937 – December 18, 2002) was an American politician and a member of the United States House of Representatives for Utah's 2nd congressional district from 1973 to 1975 and again from 1987 to 1993. He was posthumously inducted into the Hinckley Institute of Politics hall of Fame.

Early life and education Born and raised in the small town of Panguitch, Utah, Owens graduated from Panguitch High School in 1955, then attended the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, from which he earned his Bachelor's degree in 1961 and his Juris Doctor in 1964. Owens's undergraduate education was interrupted while he served as missionary to France for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS church) from 1957 to 1960.

Personal life

On December 18, 2002, Owens suffered a fatal heart attack in Tel Aviv, Israel, while on a trip to further the cause of Middle East peace.

Speaking at the funeral, Gordon B. Hinckley called Owens "a man of achievement" and a peacemaker who desired to make the world better. At the time of his death, he was continuing his efforts to improve the world, heading up the Center for Middle East Peace & Economic Cooperation. "I was with him constantly", Hinckley said. "I learned to appreciate and respect him and honor him. I have followed him ever since."

In the 2014 and 2016 congressional elections, Wayne Owens's son, Doug Owens, ran for election to Utah's 4th congressional district. He was defeated by Republican candidate Mia Love in both of his runs.