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Episcopal High School

BRIAN COWAN Obituary

BRIAN JOSEPH COWAN (Age 61)
Brian J. Cowan, Cdr., US Navy, (Ret.) died on January 14, 2019, in Arlington, VA. He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Constance J. Hallquist; three sons, Joseph P. Cowan, Thomas J. Cowan, Lukas J. Cowan, and a daughter, Anna L. Cowan. He is also survived by his sisters, Patricia E. Kloser and Ruth A. Casey; brothers Terrance J. Cowan and Patrick J. Cowan; as well as many cherished in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews throughout the country. A Celebration of Life will be held at 4 p.m., Friday, January 18, 2019, at Grace Episcopal Church, 3601 Russell Road, Alexandria, Virginia. Interment with military honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be mailed to: The Aquinas Institute Veterans Fund, 1127 Dewey Avenue, Rochester, New York 14613, or online at Aquinasinstitute.com, noting "In memory of Brian Cowan."

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Published by The Washington Post on Jan. 16, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for BRIAN COWAN

31 Entries

Madhu Madhavan

February 25, 2019

I will always remember and cherish my memories of Brian's 1000-watt smile and upbeat disposition. I would see him once a week when I was tutoring his children, Luke and Anna.
Connie, please accept my heartfelt condolences. May God give you the strength to carry on in life, even as you and the children continue to cherish memories of husband and father.

February 11, 2019

Your candle will always burn bright in the hearts of those who love you.

February 3, 2019

Brian was a self-described complex man, described himself as a patriot, fiercely loyal, "all in" and fully committed, adored all four of his children beyond measure and was so very proud of them all, goal-oriented, mischievous, and a leader. He loved his days at St. Pius the Tenth grammar school, appreciated his roots growing up in Chili NY, loved attending Aquinas H.S. and CU Boulder/Navy ROTC program, and was very proud to have served in the Navy. He had big plans and was well on his way to achieving them all. He often said being a leader can be lonely. Well, Brian, with all the love surrounding you now you should not ever feel lonely. Joey, Tom, Lukie and Anna, your dad loved you dearly and is still with you every day. --Rest in Peace dear Brian, love always.

Linda Ashton Weldon

January 22, 2019

I knew Brian when I worked in Alumni Relations at the Darden Graduate Business School. Brian was a sincere, thoughtful gentleman who made generous contributions as an alumnus and board member. I had the utmost respect for his leadership, character, and personal values. My sincere condolences to his family.

Svein Hasund

January 20, 2019

Brian was a great mentor for me on the CU Board of Advisors - I will miss him a lot!

T B

January 19, 2019

I am so sorry that he passed. May God give you the strength during this time. Please find comfort in knowing that He will bring him back to life. Luke 14:14. My condolences to the Cowan family.

Katie Buck

January 19, 2019

Brian's passing has made my heart heavy since hearing the news on Wednesday. He was a neighbor who took a chance on me when I first opened my interior design firm. I did a small amount of work for him in his Oakcrest home in 2011, but what I will always remember is his sincere interest in my work, and supportive posture. I am very sad for Connie, who I met briefly, Luke and Anna. He openly shared his love for them. I pray for peace and comfort for all of you.

Heather Robinson

January 18, 2019

He was a remarkable man with aspirations that few people tick the box on. I met him while he was touring Australia and I observed his life from a distance building a career, a beautiful family and always committed to the village around himself.
He will be dearly missed and I cannot remember the last time I felt so sad with this loss. His beautiful soul will live on in his children. May god bless you and Brian you were an officer and a gentleman.

Landon Mock

January 18, 2019

I had the good fortune to cross paths with Brian many times with the CU alumni association in DC. He poured his bountiful enthusiasm into the betterment of others and his community. His cheerfulness, selflessness, and can-do attitude will be greatly missed.

Jim Clausen

January 18, 2019

How very sad to hear this; I knew Brian for 20 years and he was always a joyful, active and healthy guy! My heart goes out to his family and business associates.

Brian Wilczynski

January 18, 2019

Words cannot describe my sadness in hearing of Brian's passing - God's comfort and strength to you at this difficult time. I had the pleasure of knowing Brian as both a customer and colleague and I know that he had an enduring positive influence on National Security.

Brad Willmore

January 18, 2019

It was a great pleasure to be a classmate of Brian and Connie's at Darden 30 years ago. In 1989 the world was changing in very big ways and it was a fun time to be in grad school with such bright thinkers. Brian was then, and remained always, a positive force in the Universe and will be sorely missed.

Lisa Williams

January 17, 2019

I too was privileged to work with Brian on the CU Alumni Board - Brian set the bar high, inspiring us to work together towards goals that mattered. An "Energizer Bunny" with an infectious smile, a strong leader, fun-loving, yet always a gentleman. I'm hopeful that knowing what a positive impact Brian made on so many people will help comfort his family, now & always.

Jim Fallon

January 17, 2019

Blessing to Connie, and the Cowan Clan...few losses jolt our lives as Brian's passing has... he will be missed and richly remembered...one of the good guys! Fair winds my friend, Jim & Stacey Fallon

Alicia Weaver

January 17, 2019

You are already missed so much Brian. Your kindness and welcoming spirit will not be forgotten. I know he will be cheering on his beloved buffs from heaven. Godspeed my friend, we'll see you on the flip side.

Linda Kotulan

January 17, 2019

Connie, Joe, Tom, Luke and Anna.
Our deepest condolences for your loss. Brian always had a positive attitude and willingness to help. He gave me great advice and support when I was retiring from the Army a few years ago. I will always appreciate his help. He will be missed. Bill, Sarah and I offer our heartfelt love and support to all of you.

Romans 15:33

January 17, 2019

You have my deepest sympathy. May God give you peace and strength to keep you going during your time of sorrow.

Brian McDermott

January 16, 2019

Connie, Joe, Tom, Luke & Anna,
Brian was a great friend and inspiration to so many. Praying for all of you but always smiling when I think of Brian. We are AQ.

Brian and myself when I passed the Board Chair poistion to him!!

Matthew McElhiney

January 16, 2019

I send my heartfelt condolences to Brian's family and friends. I had the privilege and honor of working closing with Brian on the CU Alumni Association Board of Advisors, where Brian succeeded me as Chair of the Board. Brian was always down to earth, direct, savvy, optimistic, energetic, fun, and passionate about our work and our university. We both also did our graduate work at the University of Virginia, and felt a special bond since we shared undergraduate and graduate alma maters. I will miss dearly our friendship and the time we spent together - I only wish it could have been longer. I feel honored to have worked and to have known Brian, and everyone should know that he is greatly loved and respected in the CU community!! God speed to all, even if we have to wait to meet up with Brian in the great beyond!! And whatever you do, and wherever you are Brian, always know that good guys wear white hats!!

Kimbirly Orr

January 16, 2019

I had the pleasure of learning from and serving with Brian on the University of Colorado Board of Advisors. His passion and dedication shined through his words and actions. He will be missed throughout the CU community.
My heartfelt condolences and love travel to each member of his family, his friends, and all who knew him. Gone too soon, heaven received a great Buff!
Love to all,
Kimbirly

John Vivadelli

January 16, 2019

I'm proud be counted as one of Brian's friends. NROTC University of Colorado brother graduate, in lock step with each other all the way to Battalion Commander. Exceptionally talented man, father, leader, warrior, and athlete. Possessed a wonderfully infectious smile and demeanor that made him a joy to be with. Brian, you left us way too soon. Fare winds and following seas, Sir. We have the watch.

Paul Hoffman

January 16, 2019

Brian was such a positive force in the world. He will be deeply missed.

January 16, 2019

I had the privilege of serving on the board of the CU Boulder Alumni Association with Brian. He brought so much joy and passion to everything he touched! I will never forget his kindness or the impact he made on me. My heart, thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love, Keri Christiansen

Debby Preble

January 16, 2019

I knew Brian through the C U Board of Advisors. He was a fantastic, dedicated leader. He gave so much and died too young. He will be greatly missed. His light will shine on!
Debby Preble

Rezarta Dyryzi-Zotaj

January 16, 2019

Deepest condolences on your loss. May he feel alive in the laughter of your children and memories of good times gone.

January 16, 2019

My deepest condolences for your loss. May memories of joyful times together and the comforting promises found in God's Word bring you strength, hope and peace 2Thessalonians 2:16, 17.

Shawn Connelly

January 16, 2019

Brian's memory will be a blessing to me and to all who knew him.

Jackie Busa

January 16, 2019

Brian will be missed by so many.
I was fortunate to serve with him on the CU Alumni Board where he was a great leader, gave excellent direction, and he was so dedicated to bettering CU.
Love and prayers to his family.
GO BUFFS!

Kim Simpson

January 16, 2019

My whole heart goes out to Connie and the family. Prayers abound.

Joan Corcoran

January 16, 2019

Connie, Joe and I are so saddened to learn of Brian's illness and death. We so enjoyed meeting him at the wedding in Ithaca and have often said how much we enjoyed his presence. Our love and prayers to you and your family. Joan Corcoran