Owen Michael Hollar, 3, of Harrisonburg died Tuesday June 17, 2008, at the Rockingham Memorial Hospital in Harrisonburg. Owen was born Dec. 29, 2004, in Norfolk, Va.

He is survived by his parents, Travis Michael and Dena Carrier Hollar of Harrisonburg. He attended the Pre-school program at South River Elementary School in Grottoes.

Owen was diagnosed with Leigh’s Disease, a form of Mitochondrial Disease, two years ago.  His courage battling this illness brought family, friends and community together giving the entire family a sense of strength.  Owen could light up a room with his bright smile and big, blue eyes.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by a brother, Andrew “Drew” L. Hollar, age 5; maternal grandparents, Raymond and Wanda Carrier of Mount Sidney; paternal grandparents, Michael and Shelby Hollar of Edinburg; a great-grandfather, Eugene McIlwee; great-grandmother Ruth Hollar;  two aunts and uncles, Chad and Michelle Carrier Sligh and Matthew and Stacey Hollar Smith.  His three surviving cousins, Lynsey and Cole Sligh and Madison Smith shared lots of smiles and giggles with Owen.

He was loved by his entire family and will be missed by all who knew him.  

A private Graveside service will be held on Friday June 20, 2008, at East Lawn Memorial Garden. A memorial service will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2008, at the Harrisonburg Baptist Church located at South Main and Liberty Street. Pastor David Burch will officiate the services. A reception will follow in the church’s fellowship hall. In honor of Owen, the family has asked those attending the service to wear something blue.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation, 8085 Saltsburg Road Suite 201 Pittsburgh, PA 15239 or www.UMDF.ORG

Online Condolences may be sent to the Hollar Family at www.kygers.com

Arrangements entrusted to the Kyger Funeral Home in Harrisonburg. 

	1. 19-06-2008 08:36
	I am so sorry to hear about Owen. I only met him at our High School reunions but I can easily understand how you can love him so much. This is a difficult time for everyone but Owen will be in heaven as your guardian angel watching over everyone. Always remember the good times and the smiles that he put on your faces. My prayers are with you.  Steve Rosson

Travis, Dena, Raymond and Wand

	2. 19-06-2008 08:51
	Travis & Dena,    I am a friend of Wes Irvin. Wes shared with me the passing of your beautiful son Owen. My wife and I want to express our condolences.     My son Bryan also has Leigh\'s disease so I understand what both of you have gone through over the past couple of years. We have been fortunate that Bryan is now 16 and has been in relatively good health even though he has physical and learing disabilities.     I want you both to know that Anne and I are thinking of you and you are in our prayers. Please call on us at any time.     Bob and Anne Tuccillo

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	3. 19-06-2008 09:02
	My heart has ached for you all since I learned of Owen’s situation about a year ago. Yet today, seeing Owen’s picture for the first time, was a great blessing. I see his joyful spirit, the love in his eyes, and his authentic self in his smile – what a model for all! I will continue to keep you all in my heart and prayers. Melissa Fretwell

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	4. 19-06-2008 09:51
	Our love, prayers, and tears are with you during this time. Please know that we want to be with you but circumstances are holding us back. We are so glad we could spend time with Owen at Granny's 90th birthday and we cherish the pictures! But the most incredible picture we can imagine is him sitting in the arms of Jesus.  Love,  Your cousin Donna and family

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	5. 19-06-2008 09:59
	Travis and Dena,  Please know that there are many people lifting your family in prayer. I pray God grant you His peace that passes human understanding.    Blessings,  Jodi Selby

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	6. 19-06-2008 10:01
	To: Dena, Travis and family   You and all your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time as you have been everyday since learning of Owen's illness. Remember those beautiful blue eyes and take assurance in knowing you will see his face again in heaven. God bless you all.....Gary and Sharon Harsh

Sharon and Gary Harsh

	7. 19-06-2008 10:37
	Dear Dena and Family,    We are so sorry to read about the passing of your Son. We truly are saddened. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this tough time. May the Lord bless you with comfort and strength.    Your Local Panera Bread "Family",  Billie Martin

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	8. 19-06-2008 10:47
	Dear Dena and Travis,    I don't have the words to express how sorry we were to hear the news of Owen's passing. Out thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

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	9. 19-06-2008 11:02
	I am incredibly saddened to hear this news. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you are dealing with this incredible sorrow. May God comfort you all and give you perfect peace.

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	10. 19-06-2008 11:37
	We were saddened to hear of Owen's passing. We have heard so many stories of how he made your lives so much better. May your special memories comfort you and to know that he is God's care now.   Thinking of you during this most difficult time!   Now, is the time to celebrate who Owen was and how he touched so many lives and made a difference in those lives!    Boyd, Jean, Sharon

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