T. David Cowley

COWLEY , T. David November 4, 1934 - February 20, 2009 David (Dave) Cowley, beloved husband, father, grandpa, and friend, passed away peacefully with his wife and family by his side on Friday, February 20, 2009 at the age of 74 years. Dave was born November 4, 1934, the first of five boys to Norman and Annie Cowley in Calgary, spending some of his formative years in Hillhurst. He met and married the love of his life, Elaine Leier, his "honey babe"; together they raised a wonderful family, a son and four daughters. He found his niche in sales, opening his own company, Cowley & Keith Real Estate in 1972. The company grew to become one of the largest real estate brokerage companies in Canada by 1981. The company was recognized by its hot air balloon that was seen soaring over the Calgary skyline or flying during the Stampede. Dave started various companies working closely with his son Darrol, even up to the time of his passing. A lifelong resident, Dave has always been committed to this city and community, serving two years on the Calgary Police Commission, a director of the 1988 Winter Olympic Committee, founding president of the Lake Bonavista Community Association, sponsor of the Cowley & Keith Colts Bantam Football, associate director of the Stampeder Football Club, member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO), Kinsmen Club, Rotary Club, and a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon). He was a furious defender of what was right, always concerned about the disadvantaged. He just loved people, he would talk to anyone, really everyone; he had a real zest for life. Dave loved the great outdoors, walking, biking, jogging, and he completed two New York City Marathons. His greatest joy came from the lives of his family and friends. Dave is survived by his wife Elaine; son Darrol (Esther) Cowley; daughters, Sandi (Bill) Sefcik, Wendy (Dave) Farnsworth, Diana (Bryce) Karl, and Barbie-Jo (Jamie) Vincent; twenty-six grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren; brothers, Stan (Gloria), Norman (Eileen), and Ray; sister-in-law Jeanette; as well as countless close friends and associates. He was predeceased by his mother and father, Norman and Annie Cowley; and by brother Warren. God threw a pebble down to earth, those ripples from this man have touched each of us to be a little better, reach a little further, and give a little more just as he did to us. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY'S Fish Creek Chapel (14441 Bannister Road S.E.) today, February 25, 2009 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be conducted at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Parkland Chapel (14540 Parkland Boulevard S.E.) on Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at Okotoks Cemetery. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com . Special thanks to Tom Baker Cancer Clinic, the doctors, nurses, and staff. In living memory of Dave Cowley, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek Chapel, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD S.E. Telephone: 403-256-9575.