Known to all who loved him simply as Dougie, passed away on the winter solstice, December 21, 2025, the darkest day of the year at the age of 88.
Dougie was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and a man of deep curiosity and humour. A lifelong music junkie with a passion for jazz, his home was rarely quiet — filled with the sounds of Miles Davis, Oscar Peterson, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald. He was equally devoted to great literature, especially Kurt Vonnegut, whose wit and humanity reflected Dougie’s own outlook on life.
Known for his sharp sense of humour and infectious laugh, Dougie loved to have a good time and made sure those around him were always in on the joke. From Steve Martin movies, to baseball games at Exhibition Stadium, magical summer nights at the cottage with his family, swims to the rock, and countless drives “just to see a house,” he created a lifetime of memories rooted in presence, warmth, and love.
He will be remembered for his kindness, his romantic spirit, his curiosity, and the quiet consistency with which he showed up for his family.
John Douglas Cowan is survived by his beloved wife Liz, his daughter Sarah, his son David, his granddaughter Jenna, and his grandson Jake.
Though this day marks the deepest darkness, tomorrow the light begins its faithful return — a fitting reminder of the life and love Dougie leaves behind.
As your expression of sympathy, donations to the Sick Kids Foundation would be appreciated and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted. www.fergusonfuneralhomes.ca
