Brian M. Cowan

Brian Morgan Cowan, CGCS
Brian Morgan Cowan, 82, passed away peacefully at home with his wife of 60 years, Joan, by his side. Born in Malden, MA, he grew up in Portland, ME, where his love for golf began. As a teenager, he spent countless hours on the course-caddying at Portland Country Club and competing as a member of his high school golf team-a pastime that would shape his life and career.
After graduating from Portland High School in 1961, Brian began working at Spring Valley Country Club in Sharon, MA, where he not only discovered his interest in turf management but also met Joan, the love of his life. In 1963, he enrolled at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture at UMASS, earning his degree in Turf Management in 1965.
In 1966, Brian became Superintendent of Eastward Ho! Country Club, one of the nation's premier links courses, a position he proudly held for over 40 years. He was a respected leader in his field, serving as president of both the Cape Cod and New England Golf Course Superintendents Associations.
Golf was more than a career for Brian-it was the source of a lifetime of enjoyment. He played at some of the country's most exclusive courses, including Augusta National, Shinnecock Hills, and Pebble Beach. Along the way, he formed lasting friendships with fellow superintendents and golf enthusiasts.
Above all, Brian was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by with wife, Joan (Kessler) Cowan of Brewster, MA and his children: Christopher Cowan of North Hatfield, MA; Cheryl Cowan of Fort Myers, FL; and Jennifer (Cowan) Brennan and her husband, Gregory, of Pembroke, MA. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Matthew, Ryan, and Julia Brennan, who lovingly called him "Buppy." He was predeceased by his parents, Otto and Rita Cowan.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 1st, 2025 from 11am-2pm at Chapman Funerals & Cremations-Blute Chapel, 678 Main St. Harwich Center. A funeral service will follow at 2pm in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.