JOHN DOUGLAS COWAN

John Douglas Cowan, better known to all who loved him as Dougie, passed away at the age of 88, on December 21, 2025, the winter solstice, the darkest day of the year. Dougie was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and a man of deep curiosity and humour. A lifelong music junkie with a passion for jazz, his home was rarely quiet - filled with the sounds of Miles Davis, Oscar Peterson, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald. He was equally devoted to great literature, especially Kurt Vonnegut, whose wit and humanity reflected Dougie's own outlook on life. Known for his sharp sense of humour and infectious laugh, Dougie loved to have a good time and made sure those around him were always in on the joke. From Steve Martin movies to baseball games at Exhibition Stadium, summer nights at the cottage with his family, swims to the rock, and countless drives "just to see a house," he created a lifetime of memories rooted in presence, warmth, and love. He will be remembered for his kindness, his romantic spirit, his curiosity, and the quiet consistency with which he showed up for his family. John Douglas Cowan is survived by his ever-devoted wife, Liz; his daughter, Sarah; his son, David; his granddaughter, Jenna; and his grandson, Jake. Though this day marks the deepest darkness, the light now begins its faithful return - a fitting reminder of the life and love Dougie leaves behind. A celebration of Dougie's life will follow in the spring.