Fred K. “Trey” Owston III, 82, of Hutchinson, died March 12, 2024, at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita.
He was born December 29, 1941, to Fred K. and Dorothy (Grapes) Owston, Jr. in San Diego, California.
As a young man Trey worked in the logging industry for Diamond Match Co in California. Upon moving to Kansas, he ran heavy equipment for the State’s Highway Dept. Many know Trey from his career with the Hutchinson Police department, starting in 1964 and retiring in 1999. This was a career that he was deeply passionate about, and it was obvious to anyone who had the privilege of watching him interact with the community that he served. While on the police department he worked as a patrolman, investigator, motor officer, range master, a sergeant in the traffic, detective, and patrol divisions, and as a sniper team leader on the Special Operations Response Team (SORT). Even after Trey retired, he stayed active and involved with the department, continuing to mentor and train both new and tenured officers.
Trey was a long-standing member of the Fraternal Order of Police, serving in various capacities at the local and state levels, and participated all the way up to the national level. This included multiple years as the Kansas State President. He was an active member of the Central Kansas Gun Club, for which he was currently serving as President. He was awarded a Lifetime Member status in the club by his many friends and fellow members. This was an achievement that he was extremely proud of. He was also a member of the National Rifle Association.
Trey’s passion for the outdoors started as a young boy and was never ending. He was an experienced hunter, fisherman, backpacker, camper, canoer, motorcycle rider, mountain man, and competitive shooter, having won numerous state titles. Without a doubt his most cherished hobby was being a grandfather.
He met Sherri L. Ehrlich in 1978; they married July 29,1989 in Hutchinson and the two spent over 45 adventurous years of life with each other.
Trey is also survived by sons, Joe Owston (Melissa) of Wichita and Andanmo “Damon” Owston of Hutchinson; brother, Jim Owston (Beverly) of California; sister, Joye Friesen (Butch) of Hutchinson, beloved grandchildren, and a host of family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Curtis Owston; and in-laws Al Ehrlich and Theresa Skinner.
Throughout his life, Trey positively impacted the lives of so many others. His place on this earth is not one that will soon be forgotten, nor will it ever be replaced. The family invites you to join them in celebrating Trey’s remarkable life at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at Elliott Chapel, Hutchinson, with Pastor Matt Stafford officiating. The family will greet friends following the service. Private inurnment will take place in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson. Friends may sign the book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliot Mortuary. Cremation has taken place.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made out to Elliott Mortuary (to benefit two organizations important to Trey, the Central Kansas Gun Club or Concerns of Police Survivors), in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501. If you have a preference for which organization, please put that in the memo of the check.