Owen began working at Sloan in 1965 at the age of 19 as a castings inspector at the company's foundry. After serving his country, Ren returned to Sloan's order department and was named manager in 1976.

In 1982 he was promoted to plumbing parts sales manager, and served in regional and national sales manager positions over the next two decades, until 2003 when he was named to his current position.

“There are many people at Sloan who have a special love for Ren because of the opportunity that he gave them to develop their personal strengths and to make a meaningful contribution to the success of our company,” said Chuck Allen, president and CEO of Sloan.

Owen lived with his family in St. Charles, Ill., and is survived by his wife Maria, son Michael (Lauren), and daughters Sandra and Elizabeth.

Herbert W. Lindahl
Former President, State Industries
Herbert W. Lindahl, former president of State Industries, died Jan. 3. He joined State Stove and Manufacturing Co. shortly after the company was founded in 1946 by his older brother, John R. Lindahl. He was instrumental in the company's growth, and served as president of State Industries for many years, until the company was acquired.