COLUMBUS Ohio Stewart Owens, a former chairman and chief executive of family-restaurant operator Bob Evans Farms, died Sept. 18 after a battle with gastric esophageal cancer, according to press reports. He was 53.
Owens was brought into the company when it acquired his family’s Owens Country Sausage, which operated a namesake restaurant chain that was similar in style and appearance to Bob Evans Farms. He served on Bob Evans’ board of directors from the purchase in 1987 until 2005, when he resigned as chairman and CEO. Before that, he was president and chief operating officer, following several vice presidential posts in the 1990s.
Bob Evans Farms operates about 571 namesake family restaurants, as well as the 135-store Mimi’s Cafe chain. It is also a processor and retailer of pork products and other retail items.
Owens began working part time for Richardson, Texas-based Owens Country Sausage at age 14 and was named president in 1984. He represented the third generation to run the company.
Owen also served as a director of the American Meat Institute
Local press reports indicate that survivors include his wife, Cindy; children Allison and Kyle; mother, Jeanne Owens; brother, Kevin, and sister, Kim McCauley. A memorial service reportedly will be held in Dallas.
