A candle was lit by James Revilla on February 28, 2018 9:22 AM

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I had the privilege to be hired by Lisa Owens in 2013 and I had the awesome experience to work for her directly. She was a great resource and positive change agent institutionally at CHSW. Her creativity and innovation, while being strategic and frugal, were critical elements that made Lisa a successful Senior Grant Writer for over two decades. I am so glad God allowed my path to cross Lisa Anne Owens. She was the first person to welcome me and my family to the PNW from our home of Saipan in Micronesia. I am forever grateful to have heard her story, hope, and faith from her own voice. She is truly missed.

Message from Dominique Alex

I am duly grateful that our paths crossed and that I had the privilege of working with you, learning from you and seeing your smile when you were at the Seattle office at CHSW. Your attention to detail, humor and gifts were a blessing in my life. May the wonderful memories that you left with us be a comfort and peace during this difficult time.

A candle was lit by Dominique Alex on May 21, 2017 9:10 AM

Message from Peg Mazen

Oh Dear Lisa, Troy, Dodie, Terri, Brett and all the family I have yet to meet, words are hard at a time like this, yet important to speak.
When you first called to tell me of Lisa's passing I was stunned. Like many of her friends, I had just seen her and spoken to her .... she looked and sounded happier than I had ever seen her. She was taking charge of her life. ... planning for the future, - fixing up and selling property, buying property, planning for her future- maybe become the ED of a small non-profit, travel plans, and 2021 retirement ? And joining the Peace Corps - where to go? Maybe Africa!
Her enthusiasm for life, her family and friends... Her passion for peace, for social change, for parents and children living in poverty.... her desire to transform this world to make it a better place.
And Lisa you did work so hard on all of these things and your life, your gifts impacted many. You are one of the brightest and most talented women I know. Your brilliance has brought joy, peace, and love to many and millions of dollars in new resources to provide service to Washington's most vulnerable families.
I have known Lisa for a quarter of a century- as a colleague, friend and "little sister". I will miss her very much. But I do hold on to this thought. Lisa believed that death is a transition point not an end but a new beginning. Since her death, I have felt her presence. She often has expressed how much her family and friends mean to her, know she is still around and will in her playful way let you know - whether it's a favorite song, or book, or a dropped object - she is still here.
So my dear friend, you went way sooner than any of us expected. Know how much you are cherished, appreciated and loved. Keep in touch.

A candle was lit by Peg Mazen on May 20, 2017 5:08 PM

A candle was lit by Denise Johnson May on May 19, 2017 9:59 PM

Message from Courtney Angeles

I only recently began really getting to know Lisa working alongside her for some projects these last 6 months at Children's Home Society. In that short time however I could see her passion for children and families and how she used that and her incredible writing skills to bring ideas to life and showcase the hard work we do. Lisa was a caring, funny, gentle spirit and I count myself lucky to have known her. My most heartfelt condolences for her dear friends and family as they begin to work through the grief of her sudden passing.

A candle was lit by Courtney Angeles on May 19, 2017 5:55 PM

A candle was lit by Ann Fuller on May 19, 2017 7:34 AM

Message from Meagan Anderson-Pira

I have known Lisa since 1998 when I began working for CHSW. I can't believe she is gone. I live and work in Walla Walla but the last time I was in Seattle this winter, Lisa invited me to dinner at her house there. I had such a wonderful time with her. She was so happy and we talked at length about her trip to New York and the wonderful time she had with her parents there. When I got ready to leave she gave me a bead charm she had made which I have on my charm bracelet. Lisa is one of the smartest women I have met and so passionate about everything she did. I will miss her greatly.

A candle was lit by Marilyn Detrick on May 18, 2017 1:23 PM

Message from Susan maney

I have know Lisa for her entire tenure here at CHSW. I actually hired Lisa in her first job for Children's Home Society. I count myself lucky to have known and worked with Lisa. She was a bright spot in my work life. Her expertise and knowledge was something I counted on and will be greatly missed. She was also a wonderful work mate who I could always share a story, a laugh or a memory or all of our work together. The loss of her presence leaves a big hole and I am missing her so very much. My world and the CHSW world was a better place because she was in it. I offer you my sincerest condolences and will be keeping you all in my thoughts in the days ahead.

Message from Rick Purcell

I have had the privilege to work with Lisa for the last 5+ years. She was a wonderfully amazing person that had passion for the work that she did helping children. I know that Lisa will be missed by her family, close friends and coworkers. I know that she made an impact in my life and helped me grow as a person.

Message from Jan Ward

I am so grateful for the opportunity I've had to get to know Lisa. Her smiles, laughter, fun personality, and passion for children and families will be greatly remembered and missed. My heartfelt sympathy goes to Lisa's family, friends, and those who were so blessed to have known her.

A candle was lit by Helen Lauritzen on May 14, 2017 1:49 PM

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My deepest condolences to Lisa's family. Lisa has left this world way too soon. I knew her through many wonderful years with the Seattle Peace Chorus. Her strong voice, exuberant energy and loving spirit were important to us as we traveled to Russia and Chile and reached out broadly within the Seattle community to promote peaceful relations among all people. After I moved to Port Townsend, Lisa visited a couple times and we kept in touch via holiday letters. On one visit she brought me a clear glass cube with the word "peace" inside. It stands on a window sill reminding me always of Lisa and the mission we shared.

A candle was lit by Kate on May 9, 2017 10:11 AM

A candle was lit by Vince on May 8, 2017 4:48 PM

A candle was lit by Terri on May 8, 2017 6:18 AM

A candle was lit by Karen Bosley on May 5, 2017 1:43 PM

A candle was lit by Teresa Rafael on May 4, 2017 9:10 AM

Message from Teresa Rafael

I was first aware of Lisa when we were in graduate school together and she was, even then, working to make things better and using her voice for change. A couple of years later, it was my privilege to begin working with her and that continued through multiple organizational settings. She was powerful in her ability to find common ground with others, to lead efforts to make important and significant changes and to, through her own creativity and hard work, design and implement efforts that helped the lives of countless others. I always admired her and I always valued her friendship. One of my happiest recent memories with Lisa is the celebration of her birthday, where she gave so much care and love to others there. Her friendship was a lasting gift. She was happy and her frequent and joyous laughter was contagious. For all of us who were graced by Lisa's presence, this is a tremendous loss. Condolences go particularly to her family. She remains in our hearts and I will always treasure our times together.

A candle was lit by Charlie and Julie Helbach on May 2, 2017 6:38 PM

Message from Diana@toneeport.com

I have known Lisa for many years through Valley Voices Community Choir where we sang together as altos. Lisa went out of her way many times to assist us alto ladies during pre-sectional practices and fundraising and collecting of information and funds for choir events. She was a joy to sing with, always on pitch, always proper dynamics, always willing to assist other singers become better together. She will be missed in so many ways. Her smile was peaceful. I am so sorry for your loss. Diana Ohlson

A candle was lit by Diana Ohlson, Valley Voices Alto on April 27, 2017 7:10 PM

Message from Haven S.

Dear Aunt Lisa,

You were a strong and brave woman. You were funny, kind, sweet and always had something nice to say. Ever since I was a kid, I always enjoyed your company and how peaceful and nice you were. It breaks my heart, to see you pass away like this. I loved you throughout my life, and I still do. You were a great person, and you hold a great place in my heart. I miss you so much, and I wish you could be back here spending time with me. But you're in a better place now, and you deserve to be in a better place.

With all of my love,

Haven Stephens

A candle was lit by ANN & SY on April 25, 2017 7:00 PM

A candle was lit by Karen long on April 25, 2017 6:59 PM

Message from Karen Muller, Long

Dear Troy and Dottie, and family,

We are truly sorry for your loss. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you. We love you and think of you all with love. Karen, Joe and family

A candle was lit by Carebear on April 25, 2017 4:59 AM

Message from Carriann

Sending all the Owens family all my heart. We are so grateful to have known your lovely Lisa. We have shared many family events together, and she will always be present when we are together. We love you all very very much.

Message from Lyda Ecob

Lisa was a bright presence in our lives. I have so many happy memories of fun times with Lisa over the past 30 years. I will miss her so much. I am so glad she had so many wonderful friends. The caliber of her friends speaks very highly of who she was. She will be missed by many.

A candle was lit by Lyda Ecob on April 24, 2017 1:23 PM

Message from Kaila Stephens

Aunt Lisa,

It is really hard to imagine a life where I do not get to hear your voice every Christmas or birthday while I open the most thoughtful gifts and cards. You made every family gathering so much more fun and you were so special to me and our family in your own original way. You were a candle that never blew out.

Although the news was surprising, and heartbreaking, I am extremely thankful that I AM your niece (and always will be). In a time like this, it is important to remember the times and celebrate all that you have done for me and the family, and shine a light on all the good you have done for those around you. You will be missed by everyone who had the presence of knowing you so much.

I am so blessed and honored that I get to share a middle name with you and that I was able to call you my aunt. You and grizzly will always mean so much to the family and you will always be remembered. You were and will always be loved by so many people.

I miss you so much.

Message from Roseann Martinez

I recently returned to Children's Home Society of Washington and so very thrilled to find that I would get to work with Lisa again. Lisa is one of the more brilliant professional Social Workers I have ever worked with, she leaves a big hole at CHSW that will be hard to fill. She and I were excited to rekindle our friendship. My heart felt condolences to her family. I will miss Lisa dearly, among other attributes, her easy laugh, adventuresome spirit, and tenacious work ethic. Peace, Roseann

Message from Mom and Dad

To our beloved daughter Lisa. We loved you so. We will miss you so. After reading all the lovely tributes to her, we were so happy to hear how much you all loved and appreciated her too. Thank you for your thoughts and love, she touched us all and will be in our hearts forever. Mom and Dad, Troy and Dodie

A candle was lit by Mom and Dad on April 21, 2017 8:02 PM

Message from Noreen Wood

I know Lisa from having sat next to her many times during our Monday evening practices with Valley Voices Community Choir in Kalispell, MT. Her clear strong voice, raised in song, was an inspiration to all around her, as newcomers easily followed her lead in finding their notes. Whilst in New York at Thanksgiving 2016 to perform at Carnegie Hall, Lisa volunteered to show 4 altos 'the best spot to view the Macy's parade' - we will forever remember that time we spent together, holding hands in a chain, so as not to become separated from each other in the milling crowds. A kind, generous, humorous, efficient and practical friend, who wasn't daunted by any challenge you placed before her, and was always willing to step forward to help. You are honored and missed greatly by all of your choir friends.

Message from Jody Cooley

Lisa was a true gift to me, introducing herself and Grizzley right after Dave died. We owned adjoining cabins. I remember long talks, wonderful celebrations, hearing of her dreams for the future. I can't imagine life without her. She added warmth and laughter, tears and she was just such a dear friend. A true gift. My thanks to you, Lisa.

Message from Rosella

I am part of Valley Voices and am missing her beautiful smiling face at choir. After I got home following open heart surgery, Lisa brought me a lovely dinner plus stayed to eat with me. I am so thankful to have had that time to spend with her, getting to know her better. She was also part of the group that went to New York to sing at Carnegie Hall and again, it was a joy to be with her.

Message from Kate Reddy

Lisa, you left too soon! I know we were in touch sporadically, but you were always fun and interesting and I am remembering the time we spent with you. Doug and I were reminiscing about our trip to Seattle and your trip to SLC. You did, indeed, have the greatest smile. Rest in peace, friend.

Message from Diana Dollar

I have been mourning the loss of Lisa in so many ways. She made an indelible mark in my heart and mind.

I worked with Lisa for over 10 years and developed a close friendship with her over the last five years. Her curious, brilliant mind made working with her such a joy. And her laughter and deep caring of her friends made a forever impression on me that I can only say I hope to pass on to others. I felt privileged to spend time with her out at the cabin...sitting quietly reading together or laughing at some crazy characters in some B rated movies. She always expressed her appreciation in big and small ways, giving me all the more reason to love her like a sister. I will miss her deeply.

A candle was lit by Diana Dollar on April 20, 2017 7:00 AM

Message from Susan Edwards

I have been a friend and co-worker of Lisa's for 23 years and along with all of you, am in shock that she is gone. She was so creative and fun, always making little gifts for friends, and the hardest worker I know. Was looking forward to spending time in Lakeside this summer. I will miss her so much! Love to her family--she treasured you all!

A candle was lit by Merna Terry on April 18, 2017 7:59 PM

A candle was lit by Jake on April 18, 2017 5:16 PM

Message from Mandy Hillson

Our dear Lisa. We loved her so much. I am her Australian friend and together we shared many fun travel adventures. She was so generous, full of life, and worked hard for what she believed in. She was a highly capable professional in her field of grant writing. Through her efforts she sourced millions of dollars for the not for profits organisations. I admired her intellect and hard work. But most of all she was an amazingly warm hearted and generous friend. We have shared so many fun times together - in Seattle, at her beloved cabin, home in Montana, in Mexico, Guatamala, Canada, and twice in Australia. A friendship of over 30 years lasts forever... you are still in my heart dear Lisa and I will miss you so much. I feel for Lisa's family at this time after her sudden departure. Be assured that Lisa's prescence will be felt for many years given the love she gave to us all.

A candle was lit by Mandy Hillson on April 18, 2017 2:38 PM

Message from Vince Reddy

Lisa and I were young adults together in Chicago. I feel diminished at the news of her death and will always treasure my long friendship with her. My love to you, Lisa, and to your family and friends (including Grizzly, of course).

Message from Lyda Ecob

Vince, I would like to send you a copy of the video of Lisa's Celebration of Life. I do not have your address however. Would you please send it to me at lydacat@yahoo.com, and I will make sure you get a copy. Thanks

Message from Sharon Bettis

Mmmm. I feel so many feelings and have a million memories of our time together in our 20's in Chicago. Good friendship, road trips, crying and howling with laughter. We were instrumental in each other's young adulthood. Lisa, Rest In Peace from me and our little band of Chicago friends.

Message from Barbara Dunn

Hi Vince,
I so remember you! We had just met Lisa, back in 1985, when you came out to visit. I think the two of you did a DAY trip to the Washington Coast, or some crazy adventure like that. You were a definitely bright light in Lisa's life!

Message from Vince Reddy

Hi, Barbara. I am glad you sent me a message. I couldn't remember your last name, but, when I saw your post yesterday morning, I was pretty sure that I knew who you were. Of course I remember my trip to Seattle in 1986. I remember that, during that trip, Lisa and I did camp out on the coast and also took a trip to Vancouver for the world's fair that was going on at the time. Since I got the news from her sister on Monday, I have been flooded with memories, as I am sure you have also. Well, there is some consolation in the fact that, though she had a short life, she certainly lived it to the fullest.

Message from Sharon

A short life, indeed, but so many chapters.

Message from Chandira

I am sure we're all in complete shock... I am. I made Lisa a pizza last Monday before she went back to MT, as she was late home from work. We had a glass of wine. She apologized before she left, saying that I might not see her for a while, and she had to take care of Grizzly and his passing.

I am Lisa's next door neighbor in Seattle, and although I have only known her for the last 5 years, I counted her among my best friends. She would always make time for dinner, or a show, or an art class, no matter how busy she got. I really appreciated that about her, she made everybody feel so special! Her birthday party, she gave US all gifts!!!

I was lucky enough to take a road trip to the cabin with a friend a few years ago, and we had such a fun weekend, we floated around on the lake, and never stopped laughing, and that's the thing I will remember her for the best, her infectious laughter. I laugh like that now myself, it just got inside of me!

Message from Laurie Dils

I will miss Lisa so much - her incredible generosity and thoughtfulness, her passion for doing good work to make the world a better place - especially for children. Her adventurous spirit and appreciation for life. I'm glad to have known her these 32 years and to have shared some of her adventures. Wishing her family peace and healing in this difficult time.

Message from Jake Weber

I am going to miss Lisa so much. She was inspiring to me in so many ways. So strong, resilient, smart, feisty, creative, and one of the most generous people I know. My world will not be the same without her, so I will hold on to the many years of memories we have carved out in this precious and unpredictable life we have been given, I'm much better of a person having known and loved Lisa and I thank her for loving me.

Message from Barbara Dunn

It is very hard to express how much I will miss Lisa. She was my trusted confidant, dear friend, soul sister, and adventure buddy. Always so generous and loving. It will take me awhile to process this one. Holding Lisa in so much love!!