Josh Owen family writes to community

‘No words can express our gratitude’

From Josh’s father Dan Owen, “bonus mom” Debra Belshaw and the Owen family

Communities are by definition a “group of people who share a certain set of norms, beliefs or culture.”  Every society has at least one thing that the people are very proud of, and are ready to put a lot of effort into.

Your community has made it very evident that they stand by their law enforcement and their family members and brothers & sisters.  Blue lights shining in the late evening everywhere you look, flags flying at half-staff throughout the community mourning the loss of Josh.  Your community came together because of a tragedy.  Everyone disrupted their lives to assist and help in any way they could.  Hotels made out of town travelers feel welcome, restaurants made room for large groups, never a negative word always a hug and a heartfelt story and an “I’m sorry for your loss.” with tears in their eyes.  This community stands for more than “a certain set of norms.”

April 15, 2023 changed your community and the surrounding communities forever.  It was evident during the funeral by the readings that were given —–

It was also evident that Josh loved what he did; serving & protecting, always giving and helping others.  Many of you didn’t know Josh was an organ donor and his wife Shannon honored his wishes.  This non-selfish father, husband, brother, son, uncle and friend and protector of your community even after his last breath continues to help others.

Your community has shared so many stories with our family both heroic and jokes.  I have always said a memory lasts only as long as the last person remembers it and so, please keep sharing the memories of Josh and they will live forever.

When Josh’s father and I first arrived after receiving the devastating news, we wrapped our arms around Shannon, and told her she would not be left alone, that they could move to Michigan with us and we could help them until she figured out what she needed to do.  That was the plan, but after only being here for a couple days we soon realized why Josh would never leave this area, this community.

Our plans were quickly changed.  The kindness and compassion of this community was overwhelming. We have never seen anything like this before.  No words can express our gratitude.  Everything leading up to the funeral was perfectly planned, we greatly appreciate the efforts of LEMA (Law Enforcement Memorial Association), the professional way that the entire funeral was planned honored Josh so much beyond anything we could have imagined. And to witness this community grieve with us, we are convinced that Shannon and Rylan will be left in very good hands as they continue to build their lives in Glenwood.   

Pope County Sheriff office:

It was evident to us that for all of you serving in this community, the respect had for law enforcement speaks a lot for your department.  The family of Josh and Shannon Owen can’t thank you enough for everything you did.  The care and support throughout this last two weeks of darkness and grief didn’t go unnoticed.  The organization for the two weeks for family and friends who were in town seemed flawless.  Your community couldn’t offer enough help and it was evident they truly care.  Sheriff Tim Riley, Chief Deputy Nathan Brecht you’re amazing. The phone call on April 15, 2023, received by the family that evening was probably one of the hardest calls you ever made.  Your deliverance truly made it known that you both loved Josh and he was not just an employee, but a friend.  The Pope County Sheriff’s department went above and beyond to assist anyway they could.

Deputy Eric Thesing, what can we say?  What you have done and continue to do for Josh’s family, leading all of us through this difficult time, our extended family cannot thank you enough.

To this community:

Thank you for everything, thank you for your hugs, tears and laughter.  Thank you for supporting Shannon through this tough time, thank you for all your help with Rylan, thank you for listening to our stories, thank you for sharing your Josh O stories, thank you for becoming part of our family. We as a family feel it has helped us see why Josh loved this community so much and called it home.  Shannon and Rylan are home, home in your community that stands for so much more than google’s definition as mentioned in the beginning of this letter.

This Community and Law Enforcement Family has left us with peace in our heart.

–Our sincere gratitude,

Josh’s Family