James Douglas Owens, the only son of Maxine McNeeley and Tom Owens, was born in Ogden, Utah on January 10, 1966. Surrounded by women, he was the brother of 4 sisters. During his adolescence, James lived with his dad in Hollywood, California. Frequenting the scenes of the Hollywood Hills. California Punk Rock culture had a heavy influence on his wild heart. Years later, James attended high school in Detroit Michigan. James eventually came back home to Salt Lake City, where he would live for the remainder of his life.

During his lifetime in Salt Lake, James became involved in the SLC punk scene. With a mile high mohawk & anarchist tattoos, he shredded serious metal and rebelled against the system. He was an original punk icon, fighting for the underdogs and raging against the machine. He earned the nickname "Jimi Germ Warfare" and it stuck with him forever.

James met his wife, Shelley, in the 90s. They would eventually reconnect in 2004 and marry in 2009. They would be together from that moment on, for over 20 years. James and Shelley shared a very close bond of love and devotion. They lived their lives with their loving fur babies by their sides. For over 20 years, James gave Shelley crazy, devoted promises of love, backed up by crazy, devoted acts of love. A true soul connection.

James was a true artist and empath. He enjoyed spending time in nature, writing poetry and creating art in various forms. James enjoyed traveling and experiencing new cities and cultures. He spent time in New York City, Detroit and cities of California, along with many desert trips, a "Germ's" dream! James had a green thumb and a gentle hand in raising plants and animals. He was a true gentle spirit.

James passed away on March 25, 2025, at the age of fifty-nine. He is preceded in death by his sister; Desiree Daisy [baby Daisy] and his fur baby Nina. James is survived by his parents; Maxine & Tom [Henri], his sisters; Tammy [Mike, Halley, Kelsey, Ryan, Monica] Francie; [Grizz, Skyler] Julia; [Travis, Jasmine].

James was an incredible man. He was a beautiful son, brother, husband and friend. His kindness and love for his family, his gentle demeanor and love for all things nature will be truly missed. His spirit and rebellious lust for life will be carried on by those who loved him, forever.

Services will be held Saturday March 29 from 1:00 - 3:00pm at Leavitt's Mortuary.

836 36th Street Ogden, Utah