Roll Call Tribute

Published in the (Tucson) Arizona Daily Star on Feb. 27, 2007

Bryan Cowan

Retired Colonel Bryan Cowan born to William Daniel Cowan and Millie Jordan on November 2nd, 1920 in Ledbetter, Texas, passed away suddenly on February 23, 2007. Bryan lived the latter part of his life here in Tucson surrounded by family and friends. Predeceased by his loving wife of almost 20 years, Mary Leigh (Gelder); and former wife also deceased Lena Marguerite (Thomas). He is survived by step-daughters, Mary Ann Darmer of Tucson and Patricia (Randy) Daniels of Las Vegas; granddaughters, Maria (Edmund) Robinson, Catherine Darmer and Jeannette Darmer all of Tucson, Kellie (Brian) Smith of Minnesota and Debbie (Phil) Palmer of North Carolina, and many "great-grands." Bryan earned a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas and a Master's of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering from the United States Naval Post Graduate School of Engineering. He had a 26 year career with the United States Army which included WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. Decorations include: Bronze Stars, EAME, ACR, WWII Victory Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, NDSM, VSM, VCM and two Legion of Merit Awards. After retirement he stayed busy by starting his own business, traveling, volunteering at Davis Monthan Air Force Base, leading a local Baptist Bible Study Group, supporting a variety of political campaigns and efforts, as well as a myriad of other non-profit charitable organizations. He was a member of The Arizona Council of Engineering and Scientific Association, The Institute of Radio Engineers, The Federal Communications Commission, The Southern Arizona Locksmith Association, The Los Nortenos Club where he served as President for a period of time, The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers where he served as Sr. Chairman for a period of time, and The Heritage Foundation. Most notably, he was former Editor for "The Territorial" The Tucson Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America newsletter. He furthered his education and technical skill base by obtaining his Radio Telegraph Operators License, and earning a diploma for Master's course in air conditioning, refrigeration and heating. Not only was Bryan wise beyond years, but he was a kind, generous, and patient man devoted to both his family and faith. He will be deeply missed by all who loved and knew him. Viewing will be held on Wednesday, February 28th, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. with a prayer reading at 6:00 p.m. at BRING'S BROADWAY CHAPEL (Broadway/Kolb); a funeral service will be held at Catalina United Methodist Chapel, Thursday, March 1st, 10:00 a.m. (Speedway/Tucson Blvd.); with an immediate burial following at Holy Hope Cemetery in the military section (Oracle/Prince).