Breaking News 02.13.15 Gary Owens, Announcer of 'Laugh-In' Fame, Dies at 80 Radio, TV and voiceover performer Gary Owens died on Feb. 12 at his home in the Encino neighborhood of Los Angeles. Owens, who was 80, had been a diabetic since the age of 8. Owens was probably best known as the announcer on NBC's "Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In" (1968-73), with his trademark hand-over-the-ear announcing style. On the show, John Wayne once imitated Owens announcing. The phrase Gary created on his KMPC radio show, "Beautiful down... Full Story ? < http://link.variety.com/5225e4ef65217dc6e1255fdb2a6c6.m5j/VN5sYkmOXYbUqVfNAe f47> May God bless you now, and evermore!