Obituary of Robert Cowan

Dr. Robert L. Cowan was born to Bernice Lee Denny and Willis Herbert Cowan in Ohio Township, Beaver County PA on November 20, 1920. Bernice and Herb raised eight children, Virginia, Bob, Phyllis, Thelma, Dorothy, Jim, Bonnie and Maggie. Bob Cowan left his farm roots near Beaver Falls PA to attend Penn State University where he earned degrees in Animal Husbandry, Bio Chemistry and Ruminant Biology. His research included preservation of grass silage, White Tailed deer research and miniature African antelope, Blue duikers, as forage trial Ruminants. Bob married Lois Irene Lunn in 1945 and they raised a family of five children, Bob, Kathy, Tim, Charlie and Laura. He was elected School Board President of the Bald Eagle Area School District in 1957 and during the next 20 years in that position he handed each of his children, and some of their future spouses their High School diploma. He also volunteered time to several other local organizations including the Centre County Counseling Service, American Cancer Society and Meals On Wheels. Bob Cowan died peacefully on October 20, 2013 with many of his Family at his bedside. His memory will be cherished by five children, fifteen grand children, fifteen great grand children and many Friends whose children also know him as Granddad. The Koch Funeral Home will host a visitation gathering for Friends and Family from 6 pm to 8 pm on Friday, October 25, 2013 and a memorial service at 10 am on Saturday October 26, 2013. Burial will be at Williams Cemetery at the bottom of Steele Hollow between Port Matilda and Julian, after the memorial service and burial a luncheon will be served at the Martha United Methodist Church. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.