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John Howard Mark Cowan
1973 - 2013
John Howard Mark Cowan
1973 - 2013
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1973
DIED
2013
John Cowan Obituary
Peacefully surrounded by family at Southlake Regional Health Centre, after a surprisingly short battle with Cancer on Monday February 4, 2013 at the age of 39. Beloved husband of Christine of Aurora. Cherished father of Cameron John (2) and Benjamin Donald (1). Loving son of Don and Sharon Cowan of Parry Sound. Dear brother of Paul and James Cowan and uncle of Gabriel and Ella. Son-in-law of Debbie Wright and brother-in-law of Art (Kim) Wright. John will be fondly remembered by his many friends and family. Visitation will be held at the Thompson Funeral Home, 530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, 905-727-5421 on Friday February 8th from 6-9pm. A funeral service will be held at the Aurora United Church, 15186 Yonge Street, Aurora on Saturday February 9th at 2pm with visitation beginning at 1pm. Spring interment in Parry Sound. Donations: John left us so suddenly that there wasn't time to properly prepare for his family's future, especially his two very young boys. As such please in lieu of flowers generous donations to his family would be appreciated. Please visit johncowanmemorial.ca to leave an online donation or in person at the Thompson Funeral Home. Online condolences and information at www.thompsonfh-auroa.com
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84 Entries
Fran Whittaker
February 15, 2013
Don, Sharon, Paul, Jamie, Christine, Cameron, Benjamin, and the Wright Family;
I am so very sorry for your loss. John was a dear friend to me growing up in Parry Sound and his passing is a terrible tragedy for all of us who knew him. You and your family have my deepest sympathy.
I know that he came from a good family and that you loved him very much, as he did you.
John was an inspiration to me. I admired all those wonderful qualities that made him the special person that he was. He had intelligence, wit, charm and a caring heart that made him a great friend!
I will always be thankful that I had the honour to know him and to call him a friend. I will cherish his memory forever! 'Buddy Ol' Pal'
Charles Collins
February 13, 2013
My deepest condolences to Christine and Family. I met John when he was teaching at the Schulich School of Business. I got to know John better when he became my financial advisor. John always struck me as a very friendly and nice guy, diligent with his work and very smart. I wish I had met John earlier in life ad I'm pretty sure we would have become good friends. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and the family.
Oudia Mc
February 12, 2013
While I did not have the pleasure of meeting Mr Cowan, I recently completed studies at student at Schulich School of Business. It's through tragedy we understand the frailty of life, and come to be thankful for all the moments no matter how brief. I pray your strength through this difficult period and for wisdom to raise your children.
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Jocelyn Chionglo
February 11, 2013
Christine, So sorry for your loss, I pray that God will be with you and your family always and especially during this very difficult time. May John's memory warm your hearts and live with you and Cameron & Benjamin. My deepest sympathy and prayers, Jocelyn Chionglo.
Movember John, 2012
Daniel Collison
February 11, 2013
Jay and Tory Feyko
February 10, 2013
There are many great memories I have with John over the past few decades, too many to count. It is difficult to express the emotions of the past week in mourning his passing. He was a great friend and I'm very fortunate to have known him.
Our deepest condolences to Christine, Benjamin, Cameron, Mr and Mrs Cowan, Paul, James and the rest of his family. Our thoughts are with you. He was a very special guy to many.
Jerry Ormiston
February 10, 2013
Christine, Sharon, Don and Family: Both Kathy and I were deeply sorry to hear of John's untimely and sudden passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and particularly with John's young family at this truly sad time. Our deepest condolences. Jerry & Kathy Ormiston
Doug Newton
February 9, 2013
There are no words that I can express how sorry I am to hear of John's passing. Although John and I haven't been in touch for a number of years now, I hold many fond memories of him. From school events in the sames classes together, to our awesome pitcher/catcher combination in the summer times. As stated a number of times throughout the other kind words that I have read by others, his smile was always contagious, and his friendship unwaivering to last a life time. You were one of a kind John, and I'm blessed to have had the moments we shared together in our lives. My heart and prayers go out to your family during this difficult time, and to your two little ones that will carry your spirit with them always.
Karen Bellamy
February 9, 2013
Christine and families, my heartfelt sympathies on John's sudden passing. I worked with John for a short time but boy did he love to talk about his beloved sons. I miss his smiling face and his visits to the lunchroom for his coffee fixes. He was such a gentle man and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. One of the great Michael Jackson songs was "Gone Too Soon" as this is so true of John. Rest in peace and my thoughts are with your family.
February 9, 2013
I've said it often, over many years, John was one truly good guys. As a student he had a deep thirst to know and always asked questions - lots of insightful questions. He liked to challenge ideas, but never the person who held them. As such he garnered the respect of his peers. This quest for knowledge extended into all aspects of his life and was something that continued long after he left school. His constant searching for a better way to do something, or improve who he was and how he thought, always made you want to do a little better.
No matter what, John always took the high road, even when it wasn't easy. But more than anything, John cared deeply about the people in his life. Family was number one for John. He cherished the relationship he had with his parents. He adored Christine, Cameron and Ben and found so must joy in everything they did - even in having to stop the boys from trying to climb the Christmas tree.
Friends- well there wasn't anything he wouldn't do for a friend. And what he did was done from the heart. He also cared deeply about his colleagues and clients, making sure he did well by them at all times.
John's passing will leave a void in many lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you all as you try to heal while remembering the wonderful man that he was. Warmest regards, Jane-Michele Clark
Jeremy Wickman
February 9, 2013
I also knew John and his family from Parry Sound, it has been some time since I have seen any of them but I am deeply saddened to hear of this great loss.. Rest in Peace John you will be missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing you!
Christine Hall-Anderson
February 9, 2013
John grew up with my brother Kyle, I remember him as a pre-schooler and remember them racing neck-and-neck during field days. His radiant smile was contagious. Our sincere condolences to all of the Cowan family and especially to Christine and their boys. You are in our prayers, lean on God with all your hearts. God bless all of you through this difficult time.
February 9, 2013
Christine and family,
John's smile and friendly words will be greatly missed!
Our thoughts are with you.
Kathy Chang, Investors Group
Adam and Amanda Densmore
February 8, 2013
Christine and family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. John was our friend and financial advisor, and he was trustworthy, helpful and kind. Your family is in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Marilyn (Richmond) Fuller
February 8, 2013
When someone leaves this life so early it feels so wrong. We were meant to live forever, so with every fibre of our beings we cry out, "Why?" Dear family and friends of John I too am so thankful for his life and kindness. There is a song that may encourage.... look for "There is a hope" by Stuart Townsend on youtube. (from a friend of the Cowans, originally from Parry Sound)
Jen & Jon Stroud
February 8, 2013
This is such devastating news, my heart breaks for you and your family. I pray that you are surrounded by your family and friends and they can help ease your broken heart a bit
I wish I could be there to offer my support and friendship, you are in my thoughts .
Nicole Minerve
February 8, 2013
I just wanted to extend my condolences to you and your family for your lost. I am a friend of Laura's and know how this tragedy has devastated your family. I know he is a peace now.
Dan Collison
February 8, 2013
John accomplished so much in such a short time and touched so many people. He was a true gentleman and leaves a beautiful legacy for Christine, Cameron, Benjamin, and his entire family. He will be greatly missed, but always remembered.
Tyler & Andrea Chase
February 8, 2013
It is hard to put into words the feelings that are experienced when you hear of a friends passing. Having know John since public school, growing up with him in high school and as University roommates so many fond memories have been relived in my mind and through conversation these last few days.
Although we lost touch over these last few years I always knew that the next time I saw him we would pick up where we left off which is the sign of a true lifelong friend.
Our deepest condolences to Christine and her two boys, Benjamin and Cameron, Mr & Mrs Cowan, Jamie and Paul.
John was a great guy and a great friend and will be remembered by our family forever.
Tyler & Andrea Chase
Charlie & Clea Min
February 8, 2013
Our deepest condolences to the family. A beautiful man with such a great heart, as we'll continue to pray for the family during this time.
John, a little winter fishing & business, Feb. 2011
February 8, 2013
chad
February 8, 2013
Very sorry to hear that he passed,our thought are with his family. Chad Chevrette Gore Bay Ontario
John & I.G. Golf Team, September 2012
Daniel Collison
February 8, 2013
Craig and Michelle Stewart
February 8, 2013
Our deepest sympathy and condolences go out to Mr. & Mrs. Cowan, Christine, Benjamin, Cameron, Paul, Jamie and the Wright Family and to all those who have been blessed by having crossed paths with John.
I can't begin to cover the host of memories and emotions that have flooded forth in the past few days … from our first meeting in Miss Switzer's 4th grade class, through the past 30 years … as Ray says – “we did it all”. A myriad of images roll through my mind – and John's smile and indomitable spirit are front and centre.
John was a great friend and a piece of him will remain always as a part of the lives he has touched.
Draga Culjak
February 8, 2013
Christine,
I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you.
Tyler Palamar
February 8, 2013
So deeply saddened to hear that John had passed away. My heart breaks to know that John's children have lost their father, his wife Christine a loving husband, Paul and James a brother and Don and Sharon a son.
Please accept the condolences of the Palamar family.
Mojitos for Movember - John & Crew at I.G., 2012
Daniel Collison
February 8, 2013
Kristi Mintz Vegt
February 8, 2013
So heartbroken. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Rosalina Lin-Allen
February 7, 2013
Christine and family, we are sadden by your loss. John & I did the MBA program together and he was a natural leader and role model amongst the student cohert. Being such a trust-worthy person that always look out for others, my husband & I chose him as our financial advisor without a second thought. I thank John for being such an inspiration and role model to all of us. He will be missed. He will be remembered.
Rosalina & Michael
Guillermo Recio
February 7, 2013
I had the honor to know and work with John. I want to express my most sincere and deepest condolences to his wife, sons, and family. He was an extraordinay human being and he is missed from the distance.
Don Corbett
February 7, 2013
John was one of the most gracious people I ever met. When I joined Investors Group 7 years ago he was the first to help me with the many complicated systems which, as one of the smartest persons I ever met, John mastered with ease.
A few years ago I helped him get a racing bike and we went for a few rides together. He seemed to enjoy the activity because it was easy on his joints.
I will miss his rye sense of humour and his kind smile. He was a true gentleman who was taken too soon.
Jane Foti
February 7, 2013
Christine, I am truly sorry when you told me about John. His passing is just too early in life especially with your young sons. Words really don't express what you feel or how to understand this, but take comfort with your family and friends, that is the only way to get through this. God bless you and John is in a better place. Remember that. If you want to talk just e-mail me any time.
Your friend Jane.
Jen (Moon) McCron
February 7, 2013
I too went to school with John, then had the chance to see him now & again through family. An incredible loss for all who had the honor of knowing him. Prayers for Christine, Cameron, Benjamin, Don & Sharon, Paul & Jamie.
Steve Hart
February 7, 2013
My thoughts and prayers to Christine, Cameron and Donald and the Cowan family. I wish you strength to endure such a difficult time. I will remember John as I knew him at Royal Roads in 1992 - a strong, intelligent, independent, and athletic young man.
Andrew Heidman
February 7, 2013
I knew John and his family growing up in Parry Sound and attending St. Andrew's church. I appreciated his friendship and the times we spent together. My condolences go to the entire Cowan family. You are my family's prayers.
John and Larysa Rodriguez
February 7, 2013
We first met John over six years ago for a financial planning meeting. With every interaction, John demonstrated honesty, insightfulness, empathy, and genuine interest in helping us. We came to regard John as more of a friend, then a financial planner. He is truly one of a kind and will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Christine, his sons, and his entire family during this most difficult time.
John, Christine and Cameron at our Cowan get together in Markham. We will miss you John.
Barb Barb Cowan Coulter
February 7, 2013
Steven Martin
February 7, 2013
Ms Cowan & family, as a father and admirer of John's character and talents (Metrophotonics) I wish you great strength and endurance through this period of sudden profound loss.
Ivano Renelli
February 7, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Cowan family at this difficult time.
BILL TANG
February 7, 2013
I am a colleague of John with Investors Group. he is such a nice person and always helpful for the people around him. I will miss you, John. Rest in peace John!
February 7, 2013
I knew John from our college days. I will always cherish our memories of our Friday and Saturday nights sitting around having drinks and playing guitar , singing Tragically Hip songs. You will be greatly missed John. (Kierra Craig-Furino) New Liskeard
Begona Alonso
February 7, 2013
I worked with John at Investors Group, I will miss his kind smile every morning and our small chats in the lunchroom about our children. You left to soon John, but I am sure you will be watching over Cameron, Benjamin and Christine.
My deepest condolences to the Cowan Family.
Frank and Diane Penfold
February 7, 2013
To the Cowan family, our sincere condolences of a son, husband and father taken much too soon. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Peter Sturm
February 7, 2013
I know how a sudden death after a short battle with cancer feels. My heart goes out to John's family.
Ray Dewar
February 7, 2013
I knew John for over 30 years.
I have many great memories of growing up together in Parry Sound.
From kids to manhood, we did it all.
I am absolutely heart broken.
My deepest respects go out to Mr and Mrs Cowan, Mr and Mrs Wright, Paul, Jamie, Christine, Cameron and Benjamin.
He was a great friend, son, son in law, brother, husband and father.
God bless John.
Ray Dewar
Ray Verschuere
February 7, 2013
I coached John as a member of Panther Basketball at Parry Sound High School. He was a leader and will be missed. My condolences to his family and friends.
Kristina Beckmann
February 7, 2013
Over the past three years, John played an integral role in managing my mom's finances during her divorce, which was a very difficult time for our family. Many times during those three years, my mom had remarked on how kind, helpful and genuine John was, while working tirelessly on her case. I finally had the pleasure of meeting John a few months ago, and I am deeply saddened by the news of his passing. He touched our lives as I am sure he has touched many others. My deepest sympathies to his loved ones.
Terrie Van Esterik
February 6, 2013
I had the pleasure of knowing John as a co-worker while working at Investors Group. John was a gentleman with strong values, and always had a smile and kind word when you passed him in the hall or in the lunch room. He will be missed and remembered by so many. My heartfelt sympathy along with prayers of remembrance go out to the entire Cowan family.
Angela Rancourt
February 6, 2013
John you have been the best work team leader, it as been an honour to be part of your team. I would always get excited when you shared pictures of the boys... it always absolutely made my day ... Christine you know we are here for you and the boys in anyway that we can assist... his office family respected, laugh with him, and totally enjoyed the great stories of his life but most of all his smile that would greet you every day.
Cowan and Wright families you are in my prayers and my heart ... we will always hold him close to our heart.
I know for sure that he is by your side and will always be, supporting you all the way. He never gave up when it came to his family. One of the greatest human being to ever have share this time and place in my karma.
Brian & Kirsi Henry
February 6, 2013
Our memories of John will always be of the smiling, fun & kind-hearted soul that he was throughout our PSHS days. You are all in our thoughts & prayers.
Bob and Kimberly (Badger) Caryn
February 6, 2013
We have not seen John basically since our years together as both public and high school friends but when we think of John, it is with a big smile and laughter as he was a great friend who left many of us with great memories. We are so sorry that his boys won't get to know their father as the fun, outgoing, athletic person that left a lasting impression with anyone who was fortunate to have John as a friend. Until we meet again John!
Jo-Anne Emerson
February 6, 2013
To the Cowan family, my deepest sympathies to you all. You will be in my prayers.
Les & Judy Kovacs
February 6, 2013
We are very sorry for your loss of John. May God give you all the strength you need to carry you through these days.
Cheryl Bissonette
February 6, 2013
Christine, Don and Sharon, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Denis Masson
February 6, 2013
I was a colleague of John at MetroPhotonics in Ottawa. My sincere condolences to John's family and friends. He was a wonderful colleague and a great guy. I'll never forget his smile.
Mike McArthur
February 6, 2013
I went to school with John in Parry Sound. He was a vibrant person who loved life and always cared for those people around him. The world is now lesser without him, but we will always be better for having known him. My sincere condolences to all his family and friends. I will miss you John.
Eric Desfonds
February 6, 2013
I first met John at MetroPhotonics and he taught me many things both as a professional and was an all-around great guy, always positive and ready to help out with the task at hand. I am truly saddened and wish his wife and two beautiful kids my most sincere condolences.
These words will seem empty for now, but do hang in there as time passes and every event, anniversary in the next few years will seem to open up the scar of his passing and bring back memories, remember that with your loved ones' support you can get through this. John will be missed.
Chandra Wohleber
February 6, 2013
I went to high school with John and remember him as an all-around really nice guy whom everyone liked. It's been a long time, but what I picture when I think of John in the halls of PSHS is a friendly, cheerful smile. To John's family and friends, my very deepest sympathy and most sincere condolences.
Chris George
February 6, 2013
So sorry for your loss. John was truly liked by all in High School, and it's obvious he grew to be a great man, husband and father.
David & Louise Litner
February 6, 2013
We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. John was a trusted and respected advisor and friend and a truly nice guy. Our deepest sympathy to his family and colleagues.
David Litner and Louise Gagnon
Susan McDougall
February 6, 2013
John began working with us as clients at Investors Group several years ago. He was so bright, and so caring. John was a truly wonderful person and will be terribly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and colleagues.
Susan McDougall & Todd Corradetti
Irva & Gord Stewart
February 6, 2013
Christine, Cameron, Benjamin, Don & Sharon, so sorry to hear aboyut John's untimely death. We loved having John at the house with Craig and the guys when he was in High School and even after. Our prayers are with you all at this time.Irva & Gord Stewart, Parry Sound, Ont.
Shannon Harris
February 6, 2013
To the entire Cowan family to Christine and Benjamin and Cameron and Christines family as well. Our most sincere condolences. We are shocked and saddened by the news of Johns passing. In speaking with my dad he discussed many happy memories of your family. He along with my sister and our families are seinding you lots of love and hoping that these words somehow give you strength. Much love. Howard, Robin, and Shannon Harris
Kathryn Tveit
February 6, 2013
Christine, Cameron, Ben & Family
Words can't express how saddened and heartbroken I was to hear of the sudden passing of John. His time with all of you was far too short. Our hearts and prayers go out to you for support during this difficult time.
Kathryn & Evan
Mark DePasquale
February 6, 2013
Christine and family,
I am so sorry to hear about John. My sincerest condolences to you.
Cheryl Ralph
February 6, 2013
Christine and family- I am so sorry for the loss of your very special person-Christine you are a very strong lady and John will always be at your side watching the children grow with your guidance and he will be standing right there with you guiding them also. Always remember - John is right there with you Christine to help you raise Cameron and Benjamin. Love Cheryl & Ron Ralph (Aurora,Ontario - friends of Janet Forget)
Connie (Gordon) Hoffman
February 6, 2013
I'm sorry to hear of your loss. I remember his ready smile from our time in high school together. Sending love and prayers to his entire family.
Nicole Boyd
February 6, 2013
My thoughts and sympathy are with you and your family at this sad time. Please know that you are in our thoughts these days and that i sympathize greatly with your loss. My memories have flooded back in to our high school days. All my memories are very happy and will stay with me forever. Please convey my regards and best wishes to the family. Sincerely Nicole (Boyd), Paul, Heidi & Rachel Morrison.
Slawomir Litwinski
February 6, 2013
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Nathalie Haché
February 6, 2013
To Christine and Family, my sincere deepest sympathy for your loss. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
February 6, 2013
Christine,
My heartfelt condolences for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Nadia Elliott
Terry and Rosemary Forsythe
February 6, 2013
Upon reading the kind comments of others, we are beginning to realize that "the apple did not fall far from the tree". We did not know John, but we have come to know his dad and mom, Don and Sharon. His parents are kind, loving and generous people who honour the name of Christ with their lives. Our prayers are for John's wife and young family, and also for his dear parents. We mourn with you.
Suzanne Coverett-Earls
February 6, 2013
My deepest condolences for a life, husband and father taken much too soon. Prayers for your family.
Howie Mende
February 5, 2013
John was one of the good guys. His sons will grow to be generous, kind, gentlemanly and good people because they came from our John and the beautiful Christine. I am a better man because I knew and got to spend a lot of time in University with John. He brought out the best in you, brightened your spirit and made you feel good about yourself. I was grateful to be a part of his band. What an all around great guy! To those grieving Johns passing, you are not alone.
I hope you have as much peace as possible and take as much time as necessary to heal from Johns passing. Thank you for your bright light John.
Kirsten Brownley
February 5, 2013
I went to school with John in Parry Sound. He was always the most careing, fun-loving and full of energy kinda guy. He will truly be missed by many. My thoughts are with all of you. Another angel gets his wings...far too soon <3
Zesty 2003
Mike Ashman
February 5, 2013
Mike and Mike Ashman
February 5, 2013
Christine, Cameron, Benjamin, and family we are so sorry for your loss. We will always remember John as a wonderful husband, fantastic father and dear friend. The world is a sadder place now that you are gone. Mike, Mason, Spencer and I are heartbroken and are having a hard time imagining life without you. We will fondly remember our trips to the zoo, fishing and just hanging out at your place or here in Ottawa when you visited us here. Christine please let us know if there is anything we can do. We are here for you. We love you and the boys so much.
Mark & Darlene Eagles
February 5, 2013
Christine and family we are so very sorry for your loss of John. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Glen Shaw
February 5, 2013
I knew John and his family when I was growing up in Parry Sound.I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing and all I can think of is his brothers and Parents and how tough this is going to be on them.My heart and prayers go out to his family,his wife and children and friends in this time of need.Rest in Peace John you were an awesome guy.
Paul & Linda Wilson
February 5, 2013
Christine, Cameron, Benjamin, The Cowan and Wright Families: We are all so very sorry with the loss of John, we can not imagine the shock and pain you are all experiencing at such a tragic time. Please know we are here for you and share your pain. Please hold dear all those memories shared with family and friends made with such a wonderful Husband, Father, Son, Brother and Friend, John will never be forgotten. Paul and Linda Wilson and Family
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