ROBERT COWIE

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

ROBERT COWIE Surrounded by family, Robert Cowie peacefully passed away on Sunday, February 18, 2001 following a courageous three year battle with cancer. Robert will be remembered with love, affection and respect by son Bobby, daughter Kimberly, son-in-law Dwane Novak, granddaughter Analeigh, mother Martha Cowie, sister Eadie, brother-in-law David Traill and nephew Andrew Traill. Also special friends, Ellen Adams and her daughters, Elizabeth, Elaine, Darlene and Allison. The greatest joy for Robert in his final days was the hope and anticipation of being reunited with the loved ones who went before him. Robert was predeceased by his beloved wife Margaret in 1994, his best friend Billy Adams in 1999 and his father Robert Cowie in 1961. Robert was born in Clydebank, Scotland on November 10, 1940. Robert and Margaret were married in 1962 and immigrated to Canada in 1963. He started out as an electrician apprentice with John Brown Shipyard in Scotland and continued in his career as an electrician after he came to Winnipeg and worked for Canadian National Railways until his retirement in 1995. Besides his work as an electrician, Robert had many interests throughout his life. He was an avid curler for many years and had been an active member of the Winnipeg Irish Association, The Masonic Lodge, The Shriners, as well as spending many summers at the "wee place" at Hillside Beach. Robert and Margaret had a passion for travel. During our years as a young family, we made many road trips throughout Canada and the U.S.A. In their later years, Robert and Margaret travelled extensively in the cold winter months to various "hot spots". Anyone who knew Robert surely has listened to his Cuban stories. Dads retirement years brought new adventures. He fulfilled a dream in 1995 by taking a trip on his own and sipping rum on the beaches of the Florida Keys. It was also at this time that Cody, his beloved Boxer and faithful friend, took over the Cowie household. Wherever Robert went, Cody was by his side. In 1997 Robert became "Papa" to Analeigh. He truly loved being a grandpa and was anxiously awaiting the birth of his second grandchild in a couple of months. Unfortunately, he wont be here when the moment arrives, but we know his spirit will certainly be here for the blessed event. Robert spent the last three years of his life valiantly fighting cancer. He truly inspired many people with his positive attitude, never complaining, never asking "why me". Dad lived through his illness with humour and dignity until his final breath. So many people made life more bearable for Dad in the last few months. We have to thank all his friends who visited him during his various hospital stays, as well as Dr. Paul Chochinov, Marlene from VON, all the nurses, doctors and hospital staff at Health Sciences Centre, St. Boniface, and Concordia Hospital. Words cannot express the gratitude and appreciation felt towards the wonderful caring staff on the 3 East Wing at Riverview Health Centre who helped to provide dignity and a loving environment during a most difficult time. Every level of staff that interacted with Robert played a vital part in making his final days happy and comfortable. To Aunt Eadie, we will never be able to thank you for your dedication to Dad these past few years. You have redefined the meaning of "sister". Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 26 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel at Glen Eden Funeral Home, 4477 Main St. There will be a Masonic Tribute as part of the service. Regalia may be worn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Riverview Health Centre, 1 Morley Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3L 9Z9. "As long as hearts remember, as long as hearts still care, we never part with those we love, they are with us everywhere." Arrangements entrusted to: GLEN EDEN FUNERAL HOME 4477 MAIN STREET 338-7111

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 24, 2001