Craig Owen, 60, of Oakdale, California, passed away on September 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of the family who meant everything to him.
Craig was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished son, and loyal friend. A strong man with an even bigger heart, Craig had a presence that could be felt the moment he walked into a room. He loved fiercely, protected the people who mattered to him, worked hard, laughed loudly, and lived life completely and unmistakably as himself.
Craig had a personality as unforgettable as his smile. Those who knew him will remember his humor, strength, stubborn spirit, protective heart, and the comfort of knowing that when you needed him, Craig was there.
A hardworking man throughout his life, Craig took tremendous pride in doing things well. He worked for PG&E as a Technical Instructor and Logistics Lead for the Livermore Electric Safety Academy and previously served as a Service Manager at PepsiCo. He was especially proud of his time as the badass Bobcat Owner-Operator of Diversified Dirt—a title that suited him perfectly. Craig knew how to work hard, solve problems, get the job done, and still find a way to enjoy the moment.
But of all the things Craig accomplished in his life, nothing meant more to him than his family.
Craig was a devoted husband to Stephanie and a proud and loving father to Cooper, Sydney, and Reagan. They were his greatest pride and joy. His love for them was steady, protective, and unconditional. Through the way he cared for them, supported them, teased them, and stood beside them, Craig showed every day what it meant to love with his whole heart.
Craig is survived by his wife, Stephanie Cortes; son, Cooper Owen; daughters, Sydney Owen and Reagan Owen; mother, Melinda Maloy Owen; mother-in-law, DeeAnne Cortes; father-in-law, Gary Cortes; brothers-in-law, Joey Cortes and Gary Cortes; uncle, Jeff Maloy; and many other beloved family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, W.C. (Bill) Owen.
Though Craig’s voice is now quiet, the laughter he shared, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave will continue through the people whose lives he touched. His memory will live on in his children, in stories shared around family tables, in the work he took pride in, and in those moments when someone laughs and says, “That sounds just like Craig.”
A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Oakdale Citizens Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life at Red Hawk Ranch, 11610 Rodden Road, Oakdale, California 95361, where family and friends will gather to remember Craig in the way he deserves—with stories, laughter, and love.
Those wishing to honor Craig’s memory may make a contribution to the ALS Team Gleason Foundation.
Though Craig may be gone from our sight, his love, his laughter, his dancing eyes, and his unforgettable smile will forever remain in our hearts.
The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
The Riverbank (Calif.) News
Sept. 23, 2026
