Dr. Lafayette Gilmore “L.G.” Owen died July 23, 2018 at age 82. He was born and raised in Louisville’s Parkland and Audubon Park neighborhoods. He was predeceased by his parents, Newton and Polly Owen. Survived by wife, Amela, and her children Benjamin, Adem and Selma Cacaj; daughters, Dr. Kristin Owen Donovan (Patrick), Jennifer Owen Giacobbe (Steve), Scarlett Owen, Juliette Owen and seven grandchildren; brother, Dr. Tom Owen (Phyllis). L. G. Owen held both undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of Louisville and specialized in both Dermatology and Dermatopathology at Baylor Medical Center in Houston. He served as a Captain in the U. S. Air Force.
Dr. Owen treated his last patient three weeks ago after 50 years of practice in Louisville. Decades ago he founded the Dermatology Residency Program at the U. of L. School of Medicine, serving as Division Chief for a decade but continuing in the education of Dermatologists for many years more. L. G. loved to fly kites, shoot fireworks, and forecast the weather. Those close to him recall he peppered his speech with sayings like: “Don’t take any wooden nickels” and “Do you think the rain will hurt the rhubarb?” He exuded optimism to his last breath.
Visitation at Highland Funeral Home Thursday, 6-8 p.m. Funeral service 10 a.m. at the funeral home followed by burial in Cave Hill Cemetery. Gifts in his memory to Healing Place Development Office, 1020 W. Market (40202) or Division of Dermatology, U. of L. School of Medicine, Attn: Dana Seger, 3810 Springhurst Blvd. (40241).