Jack Owens was born in Detroit and moved with his family to Annapolis as a child. The Owens Yacht Company began in 1936 and adapted the mass-production methods used by the auto industry to boat building. Jack was in charge of the company's finances and purchasing while Charles was in charge of advertising and sales and Norman designed the boats. The company was renowned for using top-quality materials in its boats. Their classic 40-foot Owens Cutter was known for how sleek and fast the sailboats were.

A photograph taken of the Owens' boys aboard their boat the Long John, taken about 1925 as they prepared to sail to Annapolis from Detroit. All three boys are posed on deck below the boom. Some of the rigging and the sail can be seen in the background as well. Pictured from left to right are Chuck, Jack, and Norman Owens.