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Irv Cowen

Irv Cowen

December 12, 2010

Irv Cowen
Cowen, Irv; at Florida Hospital Heartland Medical Centre, Sebring, Florida on Sunday December 12, 2010. Irv Thomas Cowen of Pike Lake in his 80th year. Beloved husband of Joan (Forrest) Cowen. Loved father of Herb Cowen & wife Sherry, Jeanne Cowen-Brown & husband Neil and Tom Cowen & wife Barb all of Pike Lake. Loving grandfather of Erika, Shawn & wife Ashley, Kassidy, Luke, Courtney and Lindsay. Brother-in-law of George Forrest of Pike Lake & the late Mary Lynne Forrest and their daughters Brandy, Christa and Sheree. Dear brother of Lois of California. Predeceased by his son Irv Cowen Jr. and brother Ralph. Along with his wife Joan, Irv founded Pike Lake Golf Centre Limited 50 years ago and will be sadly missed by all his loyal employees and friends. Friends may call at the England Funeral Home, 294 Main Street South, Mount Forest (formerly the Hendrick Funeral Home) on Thursday from 2:00 to 4:00 & 7:00 to 9:00p.m. The funeral service will be held at Mount Forest United Church 175 Queen Street East, Mount Forest on Friday December 17th at 1:00p.m. Private interment at Mount Forest Cemetery. A reception will follow at Pike Lake Golf & Country Club. In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation or the Minto Fire Department would be appreciated by the family. On line condolences may be made at www.englandfuneralhome.com

Condolences

Irv was a great man that was known by all. I send my deepest condolences out to the Cowen and Forrest families in this time of grief. Pike Lake will not be the same without him, but he will always be remembered for his accomplishments and caring attitude towards all. He will be missed by many but never forgotten.

— Holly Manion, December 16, 2010

Joan and family - Please accept our most sincere sympathy with the passing of Irv. He was a one-of-a-kind who had a multitude of positive attributes that resulted in successes in so many aspects of his life - family, business, social. He surely will not be forgotten and his legacy will endure for a long time through his family and Pike Lake. John and Brenda Thompson, Waterloo, Ontario

— John and Brenda Thompson, December 16, 2010

We were saddened to hear of Irv's passing... RIP Irv. Our sincere condolences to Joan, Jeanne, Herb, Tom and the entire extended family. D25 at Pike Lake was our summer refuge for 17 years and we have returned annually for the past 10 years. We will continue to visit with our two grandsons - they too got to know 'the man in that truck' passing by and waving to them. God Bless, Take Care of Each Other. Luan and Bob Marshall London ON

— Bob & Luan Marshall, December 16, 2010

Very sorry to hear of Irv's death and I would like to extend my condolences to the entire family on behalf of several ladies who have regularly attended the Pike Lake Ladies Scramble for well over 15 years. Our annual visit to this wonderful tournament at beautiful Pike Lake is something we all treasure. We are so appreciative to Irv and Joan for the sacrifices and hard work they put in for so many years to build this legacy. With Our Deepest Sympathy, Doreen Magerman, Debbie Walker, Peg Moon & Diane Edmundson

— doreen magerman, December 16, 2010

To the Cowen family, Our thoughts are with you as you deal with the loss of your Dad. Please know you have many friends who are thinking of you during this difficult time. Say hi to your Mom, from Scotland, for us. Brad & Isobel Campkin Ferniegair, Hamilton South Lanarkshire, Scotland

— Brad & Isobel Campkin, December 16, 2010

Tom & Herb, Just wanted to send my condolences on the loss of your Dad. I'm sure it is a very difficult time for you both, and your families, especially at this time of year. Thinking of you... take care. Wendy Madill Huron Heights Secondary School, Kitchener

— Wendy Madill, December 16, 2010

I was sad to read of Irv's passing in the Toronto Star. I always enjoyed my visits and special talks with Irv at Pike Lake. He was a role model for me in what he accomplished in life. I will always cherish the fun and great hospitality with Irv. Sincere condolences to my good friends, the entire Cowen family. Thanks Irv for the laughter and special memories, Dennis and Paula Abbott

— Dennis and Paula Abbott, December 16, 2010

Joan, Jeanne, Herb,Tom, George Shawn & familes.Our deepest condolences to all of you. What a remarkable man and we were truly blessed to get to know him. His pride and love for his family and Pike Lake is something that was not only admirable but truly memorable. May you always keep him close to your hearts and know that your husband, dad and grandfather touched many lives! Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

— Audrey & Steve Skinner, December 16, 2010

Tom & I wish to extend our condolences to the Cowan Family, Irv will certainly be missed but he left a great place for us to enjoy our retirement years.

— Tom & Sharon Mackay, December 16, 2010

To the Cowen and Forrest Families: Irv will be truly missed by so many people. Find comfort in your memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

— Steve & Nancy Anderson and Family, December 16, 2010

To Joan, Herb, Tom, Jean & Family. Our thoughts & prayers are with you at this time. We will miss Irv & his presence, humour & kindness at Pike Lake.

— Bob & Iona McClure, December 16, 2010

Tom, Herb and Cowen families. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. My condolences to you and your families.

— Theresa @ Northlander Ind., December 16, 2010

I send my sympathies to all the families he will be missed terribly. But his Legend will live on.

— Kathy MacDonald, December 16, 2010

My deepest sympathies to the Cowen family - Irv was a man to be admired. Although he was a accomplished businessman, I will always remember him as a true family man--he glowed when he spoke of Joan, and was so proud of his children, and grandchildren. He was truly blessed and will be missed. I feel fortunate to have known him and I thank him for creating such a wonderful environment to share with my friends and family. Cathy Henry

— Cathy Henry, December 16, 2010

To all the family our sincere condolences from Dave and Morgan on the passing of Irv who will be missed by all. Our prayers are with Joan, Jean, Herb and Tom, please remember all the good times and kindness that Irv brought to many many people.

— Dave and Morgan GILLIS, December 15, 2010

We join with so many in offering our deepest sympathy to the Cowen and Forrest families on the passing of Irv. His live was indeed productive and well-lived, and his presence at Pike Lake will leave a noticeable void... We hope you find comfort in knowing that his loss is felt by many who knew him. Sherley and Nayibe

— Sherley Loucks and Nayibe Bisch, December 15, 2010

to the Cowen family my sincere condolences. You are all in my thoughts and prayers God Bless Grace Campbell

— grace campbell, December 15, 2010

Remembering the good old days at Pike Lake with all of you and thinking of you now during this sad time. A life well lived leaves behind a treasure of beautiful memories and a loving family to hold them and carry them forward. May your memories and all the memories you hear from others in the coming days bring you comfort, peace and healing to your hearts. Paul & Sharon Gibson

— Sharon & Paul Gibson, December 15, 2010

Joan, Herb, Tom, Jeannie and Families: We were so sorry to hear of the death of Irv. After 21 years at Pike Lake we will certainly miss Irv cruising through the park making sure everyone was busy. He certainly had a vision and determination to fulfil it. Please accept our deepest sympathy at this sad time. Hang on to the memories. Take care

— Jim and Elizabeth Church, December 15, 2010

We are saddened to hear of the loss of your husband Irv. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. We will miss seeing him in the clubhouse in Sebring, Florida.

— Geraldine & Geoffrey Fabb, December 15, 2010

Farewell to a man who worked hard and achieved much .Our thoughts and prayers will be with you at this difficult time.Irv will be remembered by all that knew him may he rest in peace.

— Michael and Barbara Maloney, December 15, 2010

Joan, Herb Tom, Jeanne & Families. We are sorry for your loss and wish to express our sincere condolences to each of you and your families. The Mount Forest District Chamber of Commerce Executive and Membership.

— Mount Forest District Chamber of Commerce, December 15, 2010

Joan, Herb, Jeanie, Tom We are thinking of you with deepest sympathy at this sad time. It has been a great pleasure to have known Irv and volunteered for him for the last eight years. He will be sadly missed. We will miss him driving around the park. He was a highly respected person. Our sympathy to you all Jacquie and Randy Goforth

— Jacquie and Randy Goforth, December 15, 2010

The Gravett family were very sad to hear of Irv's passing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with the whole family at this time.

— Gary, Lynne, Ashley and Kaitlyn Gravett, December 15, 2010

He will be missed,always great to both Gaile and I. We sincerely wish all the Cowan family our very best.

— Russell J Treiber, December 15, 2010

Rosemary&Dave Merrall [section e9] we are very sorry to see in the Toronto star about the passing of Irv. Joan and family our prayers are with you and all of your family. we had many good times at pike lake and we wish to extend our condolences and will remember you and your family at a very upsetting time.

— david&rosemary merrall, December 15, 2010

Dear Herb, Tom and Cowan family We are thinking of you with deepest sympathy at this sad time. Irv was a wonderful man and we know you will all miss him terribly. Sincerely Ed and Judy

— Ed and Judy Johns, December 15, 2010

What will we do next spring and summer without Irv driving around the park in his truck, or smiling at us in the clubhouse, or honking at the halfway house for his lunch! Over our years at Pike Lake, Irv was our voice, our face and now may he rest in Peace and know he will be deeply and sadly missed by all! You were a special man Mr. Cowan and we love you!

— Mark & Shelly Diamantopoulos & Family F22, December 15, 2010

To the Cowen family. My condolences on your loss. Irv will be missed by us all. He certainly made it a joy to host golf tournaments. He always made things work for me, and helped make the event a success every year.

— Bruce Fulcher, December 15, 2010

Herbie and Sherry and luc we were sorry to hear of Irv's passing. Our thoughts are with you at this time. Walter and Betty

— Walter and Betty Tucker, December 15, 2010

We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Irv. It comes as such a shock as we expect to see Irv around the corner everywhere at the lake, I am sure he will continue to do so. Please know that we are thinking of you and send our condolences to the entire Pike Lake family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you from Pittsburg, PA. Sincerely, Kim, Dave and Mitch

— Kim, Dave and Mitchell Bell, December 15, 2010

Dear Joan and family. We were sadden to hear this morning of the of passing of Irv. I know he will be missed by your family as well as all the Cowen clan. Our condolences and prayers go to you at this time. Paul and Paula Cowen Summerland BC

— Paul and Paula Cowen, December 15, 2010

Our deepest sympathies to you Joan and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

— Don & Janet Caldwell, December 15, 2010

OUR SINCEREST CONDOLENCES TO THE ENTIRE COWEN FAMILY ON THE LOSS OF YOUR "PATRIARCH"--WITH THE LOVE & SUPPORT OF HIS FAMILY 'IRV' BUILT A 'MINI EMPIRE ' IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE - BROUGHT ' NAME & FAME ' TO THE AREA ALONG WITH A LEGACY OF VISION,HARD WORK & FAIRNESS TO ALL--THAT FAMILY WILL CONTINUE FOR GENERATIONS.RESPECTFULLY BLACKHORSE OWNERS,STAFF & MEMBERS

— BLACKHORSE GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT -- DOUG WILSON SR--PRES/OWNER, December 15, 2010

We are saddened to hear of the passing of Irv. Our deepest sympathies and condolences are extended to the Cowen family. Geza Kocsis John Schmidt

— John Schmidt, December 15, 2010

Joan,Herbie,Jeanne, Tom and George, I'm very sorry for your loss. Irv was special to me as you all are. You are my Pike Lake Family! Love Schemmer

— Dave Schmelefske, December 15, 2010

So sorry to hear of Irv's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

— Norma and Dave Krieg, December 15, 2010

All of us at the Listowel Golf Club would like to pass on our deepest condolences to the Cowen family. Sincerely, Brenden Parsons Director of Operations Listowel Golf Club

— Brenden Parsons, December 15, 2010

SINCEREST CONDOLENCES TO THE ENTIRE COWEN FAMILY ON THE LOSS OF YOUR "PATRIARCH ".-- WITH THE LOVE & SUPPORT OF HIS FAMILY--'IRV' BUILT A 'MINI EMPIRE' IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE--BROUGHT 'NAME & FAME ' TO THE AREA AND A LEGACY OF VISION,HARD WORK & FAIRNESS TO ALL-THAT FAMILY WILL CONTINUE FOR GENERATIONS---RESPECTFULLY,BLACKHORSE-OWNERS,STAFF AND MEMBERS

— BLACKHORSE GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT--DOUG WILSON SR.--PRES/OWNER, December 15, 2010

Our Deepest Sympathy to all your families. Jeanna & Al Brodie and Family

— Jeanna & Al Brodie, December 15, 2010

SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE DEATH OF IRV.JOAN AND FAMILY GRACE AND ERNIE HARRIS

— ernest and grace harris, December 15, 2010

Dear Joan, Herb, Jeannie & Tommy, Our family was deeply saddened to hear of Irv's passing on Sunday. His love and dedication for Pike Like is clearly evident in the beautiful resort that he and your family built. We feel privileged to have known him, and we will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Sincerely Tibor, Cindy, Krysten & Alexander

— Cindy & Tibor Galambos & Family, December 15, 2010

Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in our thoughts and prayers. May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead. Mark and Evelyn Bell

— Mark and Evelyn Bell, December 15, 2010

Dear Herb & All the Cowen Family members on behalf of the The Raymond Family & Leisure Trailers, we offer our condolences for the lost of your father in your family. May God Bless him and all of you during this time of Life. Edward Raymond

— Edward Michael Raymond, December 15, 2010

To Joan and Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will miss him.

— Larry & Bev Velix, December 15, 2010

The Cowen Family, Our deepest sympathies to you all for the loss of Irv, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Wayfarer Insurance Brokers

— Andrea Martin, December 15, 2010

Joan and Family, we were shocked and surprised to hear of Irv's passing and our hearts go out to you all. Irv will be missed around the Park, he was a very special person and a good friend. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and may God bless you all.

— Donna & Terry Demczuk and Family, December 15, 2010

Dearest Joan, Herbie, Sherry, Tommy, Shawn and family, We are so very sorry to hear of Irv's passing, he will truly missed by all. Please know our thoughts are with you at this time of saddness. Sincerely Stephen & Andrea Martin

— Stephen & Andrea Martin, December 15, 2010

To the Cowan and Forrest families, please accept our condolescences on the passing of Irv. Having played golf at Pike Lake since the early 1970's, I always admired Irv for his vision and determination in building Pike Lake into what it is today. Saying hello to Irv in the clubhouse or waving to him as he passed by in his truck was part of the experience of playing at Pike Lake. Irv will never be forgotten as his dream lives on in all of you. Dave & Kathy Wilson. Palmerston.

— Dave Wilson, December 15, 2010

Our deepest sympathy for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. Irv. will be missed.

— Andrew & Neely Fawcitt, December 15, 2010
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Contact Info

294 Main Street South
P.O. Box 38, Mount Forest
Ontario, Canada N0G 2L0
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