THOMAS PATTERSON GOWIN COWELL

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THOMAS PATTERSON GOWIN COWELL
May 18, 1932 - March 19, 2019

It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Tom Cowell; loving father, husband, grandfather, brother and friend.
Left to mourn his passing are his wife Valerie (their pooch Annie); his children, Diana (Paul), Deborah (Shawn) and Tom (Sheila); and his grandchildren, Joshua and Addison. Also left to mourn are his nieces and nephews; his cousins; and his friends.
Tom was predeceased by his parents, Annie and Nichol; his siblings, Pat, Nick, Liz and Biddy.
Tom was born in England and made the journey alone on the boat to Canada when he was a mere 18 years of age. He came to Winnipeg and worked hard to save money (along with his sister Pat who came over prior to him) in order to bring his mum, remaining siblings and the two family dogs to Canada. He had many fond memories of his time during those early years in Canada and the time they spent living with his mum's sister's family, and was always very appreciative of the kindness they showed his family.
Tom worked for Joe Vine in the early years fixing cars and as a driving instructor.
Tom had a lengthy and successful career at The Canadian Wheat Board, which spanned over 40 years; retiring in 1993. His work provided him with the opportunity to travel around the world, meet dignitaries and officials from many a foreign land, see the wonders of the world, experience unique cultural cuisines, make some great friends and have quite a few harrowing adventures along the way.
Tom was an accomplished storyteller and practical joker. He loved to make people laugh and loved to have a good laugh. He was a loving and caring man, a great provider, protector, a dedicated and supportive father, and husband and a man of his word.
Tom enjoyed a nice long retirement. He did a bit of holiday travel, loved camping in the Whiteshell, fishing and the great outdoors. He could swim like a fish. After a long, hot summer day of working outside in the yard he couldn't wait to have a nice dip in the pool. He loved to take pictures and as a result, the family has a complete lifetime pictorial.
Tom liked to cook; grocery shop and loved a bargain. Everything was negotiable, according to Dad.
Tom loved to entertain and threw many a great party over the years. The game of 'spoons' was always a crowd favourite.
In the last year, Tom was diagnosed with cancer. He faced this disease with courage and dignity; just how he lived his life. Recently he was admitted to Seven Oaks Hospital due to issues related to his cancer. He was being prepared for discharge when he suddenly and unexpectedly passed away, with family by his side.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Seven Oaks Hospital for the care and compassion shown to our dad. He said on many occasions while in hospital how wonderful the staff were and the care he received; he even liked the food.
Thank you to the family and friends who called him and/or popped in for a visit while he was in hospital; it really meant a lot to him.
In keeping with Dad's wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held on April 12, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. in the Coutu Funeral Chapel, 680 Archibald Street, with reception to follow. A private interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Heart & Stroke Foundation and/or the Winnipeg Humane Society.

E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS
204-253-5086
ejcoutu.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 06, 2019