John Roger Cowdry

COWDRY John Roger was born in Vancouver, June 15, 1921 to Augustus Nathaniel Cowdry and Aileen Mary Green Cowdry. He died peacefully in hospital of complications from pneumonia on February 13, 2008. John (or Jack) never married, and is survived by his cousins Nancy Tinning, Ret (Dorothy) Tinning, Campbell (Judy) Tinning, Mary Tinning (Phil Yakymishen), all of Penticton; Liz (Bob Food of Salt Spring Island); Ted Chamberlin (Lorna Goodison) of Toronto, and their respective families, and other cousins and relatives in B.C., Eastern Canada, and the United States. John lived all of his life in Vancouver, and most of his life in his beloved home in Kerrisdale. A gruff manner concealed a sharp mind, and a keen sense of humour. He was a solitary man, with a kind and gentle soul. The transportation industry was always of special interest to Jack. He owned and managed Cowdry Cartage in Kerrisdale for many years, from the 1940's through to the early 1970's. He was a dedicated model train operator, and assembled a magnificent layout in his basement. Many neighbourhood and family children found great delight in observing Jack operate his model train. After a stay in hospital in the Fall of 2007, John moved to South Granville Park Lodge in December. He was content, and settling in well. His family would like to extend their most sincere thanks to all of his incredible neighbours who watched over him, and helped him in so many ways over a very long time. We are grateful to Dr. Frank Hou for his wonderful care over many years, and to the health care professionals in the community, those at VGH Sub Acute Elder Care, and UBC Transitional Unit Purdy 3 who worked so hard to help him. The South Granville staff and administration were wonderful to him, and he was happy there. Jack knew all of these people cared for him deeply. As per his wishes, there will be a Memorial Service for John on Saturday, March 1st, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at The Hamilton Harron Funeral Home, at 5390 Fraser Street in Vancouver (E.38th and Fraser St.). No flowers please, but, if desired, a contribution to CNIB or the Canadian Diabetes Association would be appreciated.