Michael Edward Owens, A Star That Shone Bright: May 7, 1951 - June 22, 2023

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Michael Edward Owens, aka "Mike on the Mike", a loving man and dynamic entertainer, who left us on June 22, 2023. He was born on May 7, 1951, and his vibrant spirit touched the lives of all who knew him.

Born in Indiana, he grew up with his sisters and parents on the East side of Columbus and graduated from Bishop Hartley High School in 1969, where he met his first wife, Linda Lang, and they raised their family in Westerville, OH. He attended Ohio State University and completed a degree in business at Franklin University.

Professionally, Michael excelled in several career paths - from sales to entertainment - and was known for his dedication, hard work, and innovative thinking.

Maybe most well-known as "Mike on the Mike" and for his roles as emcee and karaoke host, he performed in many places from Columbus to Myrtle Beach and beyond. His commitment to excellence, playful musicality, and his ability to inspire others made him a respected figure in his field.

Michael was an inspiration to all who crossed his path. His dynamic personality and zest for life were infectious, and he had an incredible ability to bring joy and laughter to any gathering. He had a magnetic charm that drew people to him, and his genuine interest in others made everyone feel valued and appreciated. Michael had a remarkable ability to find the silver lining in any situation and approach life's challenges with a balance of clever artistry and stubborn determination.

In his free time, Michael pursued his passions with vigor. He had a keen interest in music, playing piano, fishing, golf, pond scaping, bonsai and the natural world, and he eagerly shared his knowledge and enthusiasm with others. Michael embraced every moment with an enthusiasm that touched the hearts of those around him.

Michael will forever be remembered for his unwavering love and devotion to his friends and family, his charismatic personality, and his ability to live life to the fullest. He leaves behind a legacy of love, humor, and resilience that will continue to inspire his loved ones. While we mourn the loss of such an incredible man and father, we also celebrate the beautiful memories we shared and the profound impact he had on our lives.

Though his blended family and wide network of friends may have looked somewhat non-traditional, in most ways Michael was a traditionalist. He encouraged and supported his loved ones and took seriously his roles as partner, mentor, and father figure, no matter what way family came into his life.

He is survived by his loving partner of 21 years, his fiancé Stacy Kovalesky; his children Carmen Owens, Michael (Natalia) Owens, and Kaylee Kovalesky; his sisters Margi Roberts and Barbara (David) Sigman; and his grandchildren Claire, Chloe, Malakai and Isabella, and a wide circle of extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory. He is preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Edward Owens.

We will gather to honor and remember Michael's life with a viewing on Wednesday, June 28 from 4-7 pm at Evans Funeral Home at 4141 E. Livingston Avenue, Columbus, OH 43227. Burial service will start at Evans Funeral Home at 10:30 am on Thursday, June 29 with interment following at St. Joseph's Cemetery.

To honor Michael's memory, the family kindly requests dedicate a song to Mike on the Mike at your local karaoke bar. He would be particularly fond of Sinatra or Elvis.