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Richard Cowles Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Richard Cowles
Theresa Prince
November 26, 2007
Richard was officially my uncle, but to me he was so much more. He was the father I never had. He helped take care of me and my siblings from the day we were born. He was so full of love. He taught me compassion, which is why I teach special needs students to this day. I will love and remember you forever.
Love,
Winkie
Sydney Prince
November 26, 2007
I will never forget my Great Uncle Richard. He was such a joy and knew how to brighten my day. He was very gentle and loving. He was like a brother to me. I would help my grandma feed uncle Richie. I liked to do it for her because it made me happy. I will always love and miss him a lot.
Seney
shoka Prince
November 26, 2007
Rich was my great uncle and I loved him lots. I remember when rich, my grandma, my family,& me spent most of our friday nights going somewhere to eat and shop. I helped my grandma with him by feeding him, pushing the wheel chair, and much more. Even though he is gone I always will remember him the way he was before he was ever in the hospital or in a care center, and how he would always sing,dance, and preform. Since he has passed on, I ask the Lord every holiday to tell him to have a great holiday for me and I ask the lord to tell him that I miss him and that I love him very much. And as I helped him I will help my grandma through this. I will never ever forget him or the way that he smilled, laughed, or how he always loved his Indians. I will always be his little Shoka and I will always love him for ever more.
(I love you Rich)
Rick Schenauer
November 23, 2007
To Aunt Betty and your wonderful daughters and sons, Uncle Mel, Aunt Lynn, Beverly and Gerald Webb (mom and dad), and to all others who knew Richard Cowles:
This may be quite long, but it's what I feel inside, and I just need to say it.
Our heart-felt condolences and sympathy are being sent your way as you mourn the passing of Uncle Richie. We pray that you can continue on with your lives in peace and know that Uncle Richie has gone on to a beautiful place in Heaven and will forever look down upon you all as he watches over you with his love that he shared with you while he was here on Earth. You all truly made his life a special one, and he survived so very long because of your love, generosity, and compassion which he in turn shared with so many others during his 64 beautiful miracle years here with us. May God bless you all for giving your time and love to him, so that he could live out his life smiling and dancing as only Uncle Richie could. He is truly with the Angels of God now. Our special thoughts are with you all as you say goodbye to yet another brother, uncle, son, and friend in such a short period of time. It doesn't seem fair to me that you have to go through this again after the passing of Uncle Jim in early August, and yet I feel that you all can be very proud of Uncle Richie for the accomplishments that he achieved in his lifetime. Uncle Richie didn't just sit around and watch the world and his time here on Earth pass him by. He was a motivator and a go-getter. He did things that we have never done or would dare to try. He taught us all a lesson in life that no matter what the odds are against you, no matter whatever is stacked up in your way to slow you down or take you off your course, that you CAN overcome these obstacles and that you CAN live a productive life and make an impact on others. An impact that, from what I saw at the funeral home with lines of people from all over coming to pay their respects to him, obviously touched the lives of so many others in so many ways. I was astonished that there were so many there, yet it made me proud to have seen it, knowing that Uncle Richie forever will have touched the souls of so many. How can anyone say that Uncle Richie was lucky to have lived so long? He wasn't lucky; he was blessed. He willed himself to live and he willed himself to achieve the things he did in his life. He made others smile and laugh, and he showed us all what a true Gift from God can do for people. It's up to us now to use what God and Uncle Richie brought to us, to the best of our abilities and strengths, and to make him proud of US by continuing where he left off. We won't ever forget this man. He brought to the table way too much to be just forgotten about. A small man, but a HUGE heart that had more in it than all of us combined. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all...
To Uncle Richie:
Uncle Richie, we are so very sorry.
We tried to get to see you that Friday, and we were just hours away
from you, but the Good Lord called you home before we arrived, your work here on Earth having been completed. We will miss you Uncle Richie. But we will remember you always as a man of great courage and compassion, with the love and
desire to be someone. And you were someone. You were a good friend to many people in your life, from the workshops and the Boy Scout Troop, to the hospitals you were in, to all who looked after you. You were a friend to anyone who would give you a chance for you to show just how great a person you really were. I remember my first meeting you many years ago, and how you tapped me on my shoulder and pointed to Joyce and proclaimed that she was YOUR girl, and that you were going to marry her. And I have heard that you have said that to many a lady over the years.
Well, you know what Uncle Richie? She IS your girl. They all are. They are because of who you were and what you stood for. They believed in you because you believed in yourself, and you showed us all that throughout your life. I am so proud to have known you Uncle Richie, but even more proud to have seen what you have accomplished during your stay here with us, and of the mark you have left upon so many people. To see you with that big smile on your face would always tell me that you were a happy man, content with what was dealt you in life, and that you were going to do something with your life no matter what the odds were against you. And you prevailed Uncle Richie. You beat the odds in more ways than one, and you stayed with us far longer than anyone would have ever imagined. You were a Blessing to your family and friends, and now you are a Blessing to Heaven. Someday, we will see you again, and we know now that you no longer suffer any pain, and that you are healed by God himself. As you stand there among all the Angels and Saints up in Heaven Uncle Richie, don't forget to step forward and take that well-deserved bow when they call out your name...
With all our total love and admiration for you Uncle Richie, we say so long until the day we meet again. May you Rest In Peace with the Lord by your side.
Sincerely,
Rick and Joyce (Your girl!)
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Patty Mccalister
November 8, 2007
To the Cowles Family,
Richie was such a ray of sunshine, life and laughter. I will always remember when Jill and I took him go-cart riding in Niagara Falls! He had such an awesome spirit and was truly an angel among us!
May the thoughts of memories and special times bring comfort to all of the lives that he has touched!
Tony Passerini
October 31, 2007
Dear Betty and Family.
A very moving write-up. I was with Troop 35 for several years and camped with Ricky. I am honored to have been a part of something that meant so much to him. Thoughts and prayers...
Brian Thomas
October 31, 2007
Dear Betty and Family,
I want to express to all of you my deepest condolences. Rich truly did touch countless lives including mine. I have so many great memories of him that will never fade.
alice woodring
October 30, 2007
To Betty & Family
What a huge personality in such a small package. He is truly missed by so many people. I hope your wonderful memories will help you through this difficult time.
Sandy Humphrey
October 30, 2007
Dear Betty and family,
May peace be with you in this time of separation from Ricky. I have been so blessed by knowing Ricky and all of the family. betty you and your family show the true meaning of family love. I have never known another family that is so close and there for each other and for others. The dedication you have is reflected by the accomplishments that Ricky made in his life as well in the livs of so many Special Folks that you have helped. Chuck is saddened by Ricky's passing and asked for prayers for you Sunday at church. Chuck is so blessed by the work you dedication you have shown him at work. We will miss seeing Ricky for now but know that we shall all gather together again.
Love Sandy and Chuck
Laura Cowles
October 30, 2007
Uncle Ritchie,
I am so lucky to have been touched by your life. I know that you are with Grandma now and all is wonderful.
Love,
Laura
Mel and Lynn Cowles
October 30, 2007
To our family,
At this very sad time we remember Rich and can't help but smile. His smile was electric and his love of life was infectious! He truely was and is an inspiration to all he's touch during his journey here on earth. I believe God gave him to us,better yet loaned to us, to give us a little taste of heaven. Richard will be missed by all of us but if we keep our faith we'll be joining him someday. Close your eyes and feel his happiness, he's singing and dancing to a packed house! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Beverly Ann Webb
October 29, 2007
My Brother Richard:
The Cowles family is so special for having had Richard in our family.
The last time I saw him,in August , and he knew me and called me Beler& Smiled, I was the happiest person in the world.
Thank you God for my little brother Richard.
Beverly webb- LOving sister
(I have always been so proud of him)
Tina Tornow
October 29, 2007
Dear Rich, you have been such a bright part of my life. It is because of you that I truly know the words happiness, sincereity, compassion and simplicity. You have taught me that with just a simple smile you can make someones day, you can change a life - you changed mine. Rich, you have taught me how important people are in life and that with just one simple gesture - you can make someone feel loved. Your personality was so contagous and so inspiring that you touched everyone who knew you. The stories that people have to tell about you will be told forever. You have blessed my life and loved me unconditionally and I thank you for that. Even though you were my uncle, I considered you my father. You raised me since birth and were there for the key moments in my life with nothing to gain but just simply to give. I have been so blessed by you that it is going to be hard to live a life here without you. I will always remember the way your hand felt in mine, the way your clothes smelled, the way your kiss felt on my cheek, the way you would sing and dance with such spirit and so many other special things about you. I know you are dancing and singing with God. You have an audience of angels and I am sure you are brightening their day. I will definitely miss you Swiss Cheese. Love your Deenie, Muck, Indian Baby and Ellylliot.
Cindy Burga
October 29, 2007
Betty,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Rick touched so many lives and will always be remembered.
Kathy Minocchi
October 29, 2007
To Betty and all of Rick's family,
I have known Rick since he walked me around on his arm and sang to me when I was a new Sub Nurse at Higgins W/S in 1995. I have been happy to be his nurse at WDC for about 8 years, I will miss him and his beautiful smile. God bless.
Kathy Minocchi R.N.
Stephen Daskalov
October 29, 2007
Betty,
Richard was a lover of life and people.Your outstanding love helped him to be the loving man he was to others. My God bless you and keep you in this sad hour.
Greg Walker
October 29, 2007
Dear Lynn and Mell and all the Cowles Family:
My Wife Ann, and I would like to express Our condolences at the loss of Your beloved Richard.
We at CPAG have always been blessed by the hope and encouragement that You bring to Our Support Group. This Year has seen many trials and sorrows but We know that We have a hope that can never fade away for as the scripture has said; "Many Waters Cannot Quench Love"(Song Of Solomon Chapter 8:7)
God Bless and Comfort Your Family as You face this trying season and know that Our Hearts and Prayers are with You.
In His Service and Yours-
Greg and Ann Walker and all here at "On Eagles' Wings" (CPAG)
Kathy Varga
October 29, 2007
Betty and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Rick was an original. I will never forget how he and Jack sang together at Whipple Dale and how much he loved Christmas music. He touched my heart. God bless.- Kathy
Victor Campbell
October 29, 2007
God bless you ricky, truly you will be missed.GOD SPEED>
Leslie Thomas
October 29, 2007
Ricky will be truely missed and was a delight to all who knew him. May god bless the family and give them peace.
Lisa (Capocci) Hicklin
October 28, 2007
To the Cowles Family-
I am so blessed to have had the pleasure of working with Richard on so many Very Special Arts productions. More importantly, I gained his friendship through our experiences together. His "contagious" charm and love of performing will be missed greatly. Richard touched my life and will continue to impact the lives of others through our memories of him.
Welcome Home, Richard!
Love, friendship and prayers,
Pat Newell
October 28, 2007
To Luke, Betty, and the entire Cowles Family and extended family-What an absolute JOY it was to have known Rich-I will never forget how he wanted to marry me and walk down the aisle-singing"Here Comes the Bride"! What a blessing he was for us all,and what a true blessing Betty and the entire family was for Rich-we are all RICHER. I will miss him and think of him always. Wish I was there to give everyone a huge hug-my thoughts and prayers-and fond memories are with you in spirit. Love-Pat Newell
Blanche Mae
October 28, 2007
Betty Jean my prayers are with you. Your old school mate.
Take care and God bless
PATRICIA A. JOY
October 28, 2007
TO BETTY AND FAMILY, SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE PASSING OF YOUR BELOVED BROTHER-IN-LAW RICHARD. I'M SURE YOU'RE LOVING CARE HAD A LOT TO DO WITH HIS LONG LIFE.YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. LOVE, PATTI JOY AND GENE DODSON
Robert R Webb
October 28, 2007
10-28-07
Dear Uncle Richie,
Thank you for being such a nice to person to all you're family& Friends at the workshop.
You will be missed by all that knew you & cherished you.
We will always love you. ,
Robert R Webb
Susan McBride
October 27, 2007
Betty,
I really enjoyed working with Richard back in the ceramics area at whipple Dale.I will miss him a lot.
Susan McBride
Lori Moyer
October 27, 2007
Dear Rick, I hope you're waiting for me when it's my time to come home to the Lord. You have made my life so much richer by being a part of it. You will forever hold a special place in my heart. I love you, Lori
Carolyn Chimera
October 27, 2007
It was a pleasure working with Richard in the partial seniors group at WDC. We all enjoyed his singing during group.
Nikki Papoulides
October 27, 2007
To the Coweles family,
I did not know Richard at all, but I did know of him, his name would pop up at certain functions that I had attended. Being a mother of a child with Down Syndrome your son held great meaning to me. He had lived his life with Grace and Dignity, and was an inspiration to my family and I am certain to others as well.
I just wanted to thank you for being one of the foreparents that paved the way in order for this generation to succeed. So thank you for that. Because of Richard and your family, this generation will be able to be included in typical activities and live within the typical world.
Richard educated society on Down Syndrome Awareness, he showed the world his greatness, and he allowed his greatness to shine.
Richard impacted the world, and lived a life with meaning, success, showed everyone his abilities.
I think that in a time like this, it is good to reflect on this, and that his life impacted a great many of people.
Butch & Sue Judy familey
October 27, 2007
Betty,Our prayers are sent out to you and your familey.May Richard rest in peace.We love you all. Butch
Pat Wiczulis
October 27, 2007
Adam and I love Ricky and will miss his wonderful smiling face. Betty, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Adam Rizor and Pat Wiczulis
Becky Barnes
October 27, 2007
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
connie clark
October 27, 2007
Rich, I love you. Thank you for the unconditional love you showed everyone you met. Your bright smile was enough to bring anyone through a bad day. Thank you for being part of my life and the lives of my children. You are truely an angel and will be missed greatly. Love you Connie
Cathy Helm
October 27, 2007
Betty and family, Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family. Richie was such a joy to be around and made us all laugh. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Love, Dan, Cathy, Stacie & Stephanie Helm/Seely
Lori Moyer
October 27, 2007
Dear Rick, I hope you'll be waiting for me when I come home to be with the Lord. You made my life richer just being in it and you will forever hold a place in my heart. I love you, Lori Moyer
Gerri (Addessi) Hooley
October 27, 2007
Richard was a special man. He was the one who brought smiles to everyone participating during the productions of the Very Special Arts. He will be truly missed. Its hard to lose such a beautiful person, but now he is bringing smiles to all in heaven. I too have recently lost a special family member. My condolences and prayers are with the family at this time.
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