Tribute to a Fallen Lineman

By Steve McCollum; posted April 23, 2012

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My friend Fred Bennett [id=339207485] spotted this today while driving, and took a couple of pictures. The GPS coordinates from his iPhone camera let me generate the map. Use "View Original" to be able to see the lettering on the sign.

Too often we forget how these guys (and gals) put their lives on the line, sometimes in the worst of weather, to assure that we continue to receive what most consumers have come to regard as a commodity. This is one of the careers where you don't get to make any mistakes.

If anybody has further details about this memorial, please let me know, and I will add them.

These particulars are from http://dcfunerals.com/index_files/Page6957.htm.

Shawn William Owens, 40, of Tiskilwa, passed away on Saturday, July 2, 2011, in Kewanee Hospital.

He was born on Dec. 13, 1970 in LaSalle to William and Georgia (Pelka) Owens. He graduated Lawrence Central High School in Indiana and one year of lineman school.

He has worked as a lineman since 2003 for Corn Belt Electrcal Company. He was a member of IEBW Local 51.

He was the local favorite D.J. for many years, he worked under the name Toonz to Go and later as Shawn Owens D.J.

Survivors are his mother, Georgia (Vince) Menendez of Mark and loving companion and soulmate, Kimi Meaker of Tiskilwa.

He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents.

Contributions can be made to the Shawn W. Owens Lineman School Scholarship Fund.

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