We are sad to say that Owen passed away this morning, April 29 - the same day as Mitchell's Birthday.  Our hearts are heavy for their family and they remain in our prayers.

OWEN PRESTON Owen Vaughan Preston, 9, of Wilmington passed away Saturday, April 29, 2017 after a courageous 16 month battle with brain cancer. Owen was born in Wilmington on April 2, 2008, the son of Jennifer and Brian Preston and older brother to Luke. He was a third grader at Holly Tree Elementary school and a member of Cub Scouts. He enjoyed playing soccer, jumping on the trampoline, catching frogs, drawing, and reading. Over his short lifetime, he was able to find the good in situations and share that with others. He spent 6 weeks at the Ronald Mc Donald House of Durham where he formed deep friendships and went on to initiate several fund raisers on behalf of the RMH. He was also a huge fan of his loving team at NHRMC infusion program and looked forward to his visits. He is survived by his parents, Jennifer Hitch Preston and Brian Charles Preston, and brother Luke of Wilmington; grandparents Margaret and Ronald Preston of New Bern; grandparents Mary Sue and John Hitch of Raleigh; Uncle Chris and Aunt Nancy Preston of Wilmington, Uncle Andy Preston and Lisa Kahl of New Bern, Uncle David Hitch and Kate Ross of Asheville, Aunt Dawa Hitch of Asheville, Uncle Bill Hitch of Asheville, and cousins Conerly, Hunter, and Taylor. The family will receive visitors at the home on Tuesday May 2, 2017 from 5-7 PM. A memorial service will be held at St. James Episcopal Church, Wednesday May 3, 2017 at 4 PM with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Owen's memory may be made to: Ronald Mc Donald House of Durham & Wake 506 Alexander Ave Durham, NC 27705 or the NHRMC Foundation for the Pediatric Infusion Program at the Betty H. Cameron Women's & Children's Hospital 2259 South 17th St. Wilmington, NC 28401. Please share memories and condolences with the family at www.wilmingtoncares.com Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington NC 28403 910.791.9099.

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