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Joseph Cowan |
Cowan worked at UNMC for 14 years.
“Joe knew the university accounting system better than anyone on campus,” said Ed Ramspott, business director of the Eppley Institute. “He was just excellent. He was a quiet guy who went about his business. He is really going to be missed around here.”
Funeral services for Cowan have been set for Saturday at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church at 223 Harmony St. in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
I sit here with such a heavy heart my dear friend Joe, I just cannot believe you are gone. God had a purpose for you, and one day we will know what that is. My love and heart goes out to your wife Michelle and daughter Anna Joe, and know that you will always be here with us. I will miss you my friend, and as you would always end your emails to me, so I with you. "Be Cool"
Joe Cowan was a cyclist. Last spring I sent campus cyclists a mileage calendar for the spring and summer months. After he received it, Joe improved it and extended it to include the entire year. He sent me the improved version so I could share it with others. Even though it certainly wasn’t his job, he took the initiative to actively promote cycling in the Eppley Cancer Institute. I didn’t get to know Joe. But, I do know that he was the kind of man who was willing to go out of his way to help others. Thanks Joe.
Joe and I were on a committee together many years ago. He never forgot who I was. The few times I talked with him on the phone after that he would always comment on who I was. He was a special man and I am sure he will be greatly missed by Ed Ramspott and many others on campus. Sincere sympathy to all who knew him. Lola
I agree with Peter that Joe would go out of his way to help you. I casually mentioned to Joe one day that I was learning how to use a new digital camera, not aware that he enjoyed photography and was quite knowledgeable about cameras. After that, Joe made a point of asking me how I was doing with the camera, always offering up some new tip or bit of advice. I really appreciated his help and the way he was so nice about it.
If ever there was an example of the extent of human kindness and patience, Joe was and is that example. The only way I could ever repay him for his generosity is to continue living the life he taught through his everyday examples. This is the worst loss imaginable for a loving family and an institution that relied so heavily on his work ethic, ingenuity and high moral standard. But if there is one special place left up there…..I am sure Joe has it.
I worked with Joe years ago when I was at Eppley Institute. I didn't know him very well, however. But what I can say is that he was always full of humor and could make me laugh during those hectic grant application cycles. He was a gentle soul whose light made the world brighter and warmer. Joe, my heart is sad that your light is now gone from this world. Be at peace, Joe, and I have no doubt that you are bringing much joy and laughter to heaven. My deepest sympathy to Joe's wife and daughter. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I have worked closely with Joe for the past 15 years. He was always willing to help out and was a great listener.
My heart is heavy for this loss. My deepest sincere sympathies go out to his family. He was a good decent man, patient, kind and always had a good sense of humor.
I will deeply miss you Joe. You taught me a lot. God Bless you Boss!
The news of Joe's death deeply saddened me ,I am one of Joe's classmates from High school at Sherwood in Sandy Springs Md.,he was friend in school and I never forgot him. We started e-mailing from classmates to keep in touch. He spoke of his daughter and her Volleyball skills.I can still remeber his kind nature and his serious attitude toward any of his endeavors,I was not that way,signed my year book and how great I was(I was a runner),always thinking of other people.He was brillant ,highly intelligent and a person that people should model after.I am truly upset over the news,sorry for the late words,just got a message today.Craig Callio
To the Cowan Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss,my prayers are with you .Anyone that had the pleasure to meet Joe, will always remember him. Craig Callio/class of 71' at Sherwood High.