George Stephen Owen, Quartermaster
George Stephen Owen, Quartermaster, Mercantile Marine, SS Connemara, died on 3 November 1916, age 46, due to a collision at sea.
He was born at Carnarvon on 28 July 1870, the son of George and Mary Elizabeth Owen (nee Jones). He was baptised on 4 September 1870. In 1871 the family lived at 20 Bridge Street, Llanbeblig, Carnarvon where his father was a Grocer from Cheshire. At that time his siblings included Richard Owen (5) and Mary Kate Owen (2). In 1881 his mother was running a Lodging House in 6 North Penallt, Carnarvon. He was the only child living at home aged 11.
He married Jane Williams at Llanbeblig, Carnarvon on 1st September 1893. In the same year he enrolled in the Royal Navy Reserve (RNR) whilst living at 5 Blue Bell, London Road, Holyhead. His service number was D955. He remained in the RNR until his death and received his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in March 1916. He was not called up for service at the outset of war probably due to his age.
In 1901 the family was living at 26 Hendre Street, Carnarvon and comprised George Stephen Owen (29) and employed as a Sailor, Jane Owen (26), George (5), Mary LIzzie (4), Jane (2) and Owen (9 months). By 1911 the family had relocated to 5 Blue Bell, London Road, Holyhead. There were two additional children - Kate Ellen (6) and Marella Frances Owen (3), both born at Holyhead. George was then employed as a AB Seaman on the Holyhead ship SS Rathmore.
It would appear from his RNR Service record that he may have commenced employment with the LNWR as an AB Seaman in about 1905, although he is known to have served with the company for 14 years. His RNR record also indicates a change of address in December 1911 to 5 Railway Cottages, London Road, Holyhead. At the time of his death he was living at 28 Cecil Street, Holyhead and left a widow with five children. He was a member of the Disgwylfa Chapel, London Road. His daughter, Marella died at 28 Cecil Street in July 1918. His wife died at 'Cartref', Llanynghenedl - Valley Hospital in December 1943, whilst resident at 11 Moulton Street.
He lost his son George Owen in August 1915 whilst serving with the RWF at Gallipoli.
His wife, Jane, was awarded compensation of £10 forthwith and £4 a month.
His body was recovered for burial. His burial is recorded in the Holyhead Parish Register but the location of his grave is unknown. It is possible that he may have been buried at Carnarvon.
With thanks to Aled L Jones for the additional family information.