Mike was rushed to the hospital after suffering a serious stroke. He never regained consciousness and passed away peacefully several days later at 4:04 p.m. on Feb. 5, 2017 surrounded by his immediate and extended family.
Mike was born September 24, 1933 in New York City. He was married to Honey Cowan on February 16, 1961 in Baltimore, Maryland. On February 16 they would have been married for 56 years.
Educated at Amherst College, NY University School of Medicine, Dr. Cowan was an Allergist at Peninsula Allergy Associates.
Mike was active in aviation medicine for 50 years. He was a senior FAA medical examiner and a consultant to airlines and aeromedical transport services. He founded Air Ambulance and Hawaii Air Ambulance. He was a Lt. Commander in the Public Health Service. Mike had his pilot's license for 50 years and received an award for flying 50 years accident free. He loved to fly and flew to San Francisco on a regular basis as his medical practice was located there. He was an accomplished tennis player, golfer and excellent bridge player and chess player.
Mike was the loving father of Mindy Cowan, Beth Cowan and Stefan Cowan. He was the attentive grandfather of Ayden Danovaro, Kiara Danovaro, Aspen Cowan and Malachi Cowan. His parents Alvin Cowan and Shirley Phillips Cowan preceded him. He has a sister, Nancy Weisman.
The Memorial Service takes place today, February 8, 2017 at 12 noon at Lassila Funeral Chapel, 551 Grass Valley Hwy. Auburn.
Burial will follow at 1:30 p.m.
Celebration of Mike's Life immediately following the Memorial Services at the Auburn Airport in the TGH Hangar (Mike's hangar).
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Healing Pastures, Inc. 501©(3) # 46-2449921
www.chorseranchauburn.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Auburn Journal on Feb. 7, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Cowan

19 Entries

Gerry S Brown

February 1, 2025

A mentor, a friend, unlimited energy, a ready smile, when he entered a room, it got a little brighter, I think of him often........... my life was made better knowing him, Thanks Doc........

Gerry Brown

February 1, 2020

Wow, I guess that fact I was just talking about Mike just two days ago says it all.... he was a man to be remembered. I was telling a friend what a dynamo Mike was, that he always had 30 balls in the air, with 50 more ideas how to add more...... one day I was little frustrated with him handing more of his ideas to me, so I went out and got a big white board and hung it in the office at Air Ambulance, and started writing down all the projects he wanted me to do, well, three more white boards I was done....... well over 40 things he wanted me to do, look into, contact, build, think about......... he came into the office, looked at what I had done, and said.........." I guess we are going to need another board" I asked why, and he said "so we can get there together" what a guy, I loved Mike........ Sincerely, with all my heart, Gerry

Gloria Rich

April 24, 2017

I had been an allergy patient of Dr. Cowan's for the past two years, and had a scheduled with him for tomorrow for my allergy assessment. When I was in the office today for my shot I was shocked to hear he had passed away. His allergy plan for me has truly brought me much healing from the many years I suffered with chronic illness. Bless you Dr. Cowan. I will miss you.

Tom George

March 8, 2017

I was sorry to hear about Mike. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Rich Kranz

February 25, 2017

I went to Dr. Cowan for almost my entire 28 year career at United Airlines. I was shocked and saddened to hear about his passing. We often talk about his 182 and just flying in general. He will be missed by many here in the bay area .

Marsha von Dessonneck

February 14, 2017

Honey and family, I am so sorry to hear about Mike's death. It must have been a real shock to all of you. I know that he will be missed greatly. Take care,
Marsha von Dessonneck

Gerry Brown

February 10, 2017

I just spoke with Doc a few months ago, he was going to fly Honey up to the Northwest for a visit as soon as her leg was better, he was still a bundle of energy and happiness, I've known, and worked for Mike since 1975 when he gave me my first FAA Medical...... Mike made a difference in this world, a Good Man, a Force of Nature.... Tailwinds Doc.......

Eva Hall

February 10, 2017

My deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Cowan. I did not know him, but I am sure those who did will have many loving memories. May prayers also comfort and strengthen you.

February 10, 2017

Mindy,
Im so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. My thoughts are with you and your family.
-Donna Bassett

Chan

February 10, 2017

My deepest condolences Cowan family. As you grieve, know that ' God cares for you '. - 1 Peter 5 : 7

Darin Bishop

February 9, 2017

So sad to hear of Dr. Cowan's passing! My father was an airline pilot who went to Doc Cowan until he retired in 1994, I've gone to him for my entire 30 year career at United Airlines so far, and my 16 year old son went to him for his first FAA medical certificate a couple years ago. I've always looked forward to catching up with him every six months as we shared our love of general aviation and small aircraft. He was highly respected among all the pilots who knew him. I regret not knowing in time to attend the memorial, but my thoughts are now with the family as they adjust to life without this great man. -Captain Darin Bishop, United Airlines

Alphonso

February 9, 2017

To the family of Dr. Michael Cowen, I am so sorry for your loss. I'm sure you will miss him dearly. Please find comfort in knowing one day we will see our loved ones again. John 6:40. Matthew 5:5.

February 8, 2017

Mindy, So very sorry to read of your father's passing. May you gain strength from each other. Michaelyn McKelvey, Dallas, TX

Don Ewbank

February 8, 2017

We will miss Dr. Mike at our weekly bridge game in Auburn. He was a joy to play with and discuss his latest book. His words about experiences in flying and his family were always a pleasure.

Cordy Sander

February 8, 2017

Honey - I'm sorry you lost your husband.

Jerry and Nora Poole

February 8, 2017

Hours talking with Mike were always productive! His love of flight would shine. Safety in the skies and on the ground were our common goal. Mike has flown away after years of hard work. Blue Skies, my friend. Respectfully, Jerry and Nora Poole

Megan Robinson

February 7, 2017

My heart is with Mike's family today and in the coming days. The world lost a wonderful father, husband, friend and mentor on Sunday. Blue skies and tailwinds.
Megan

Emily and Don Colbert

February 7, 2017

Unfortunately, didn't get to know you well, as life is always too busy. I did admire your willingness to help others when you were home and also quite busy. Still flying and working at an age when most people are sitting around. You and Honey have been great neighbors. You will be missed.

Edward Cowan

February 7, 2017

Cousin Mike was older than I by seven weeks, so I have known him almost all his interesting life. He flew airplanes, swatted tennis balls, helped people cope with their allergies and was devoted to family and friends. He will be sorely missed.

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