Louise Cowan

Louise A. Cowan, age 91, of South Lyon, Michigan, passed away on March 27th, 2025. She was born on December 20, 1933, to Peter and Mary Jakubowski. Louise lived a long and fulfilling life, touching the hearts of all who knew her. Louise graduated from St. Hyacinth Grade School and St. Anthony High School. She spent much of her life in Detroit and St. Clair Shores before moving to Cambrian Senior Living in South Lyon. Louise was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who cherished her family above all else. She is survived by her beloved children: Dennis (Andrea) Cowan, Judi (Dave) Tillema, John (Danielle) Cowan, and Sharon (Skip) Wagner. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Sara Stark, Danny Cowan, Kaitlyn Cowan, Stephanie Kocis, Kevin Cowan, Joe Cowan, Matthew Wagner, and Mallory Wagner. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Nathan Stark, Samantha Stark, Andrew Kocis, Austin Kocis, Oliver Wagner, and Judd Wagner. She was preceded in death by her dear parents, Peter and Mary, and her beloved sister, Rose. The pillars of Louise's life were her family, faith and service to others. She worked for the Archdiocese of Detroit for nearly 30 years at the Chancery in Downtown Detroit. She was the last executive secretary for Cardinal John Dearden before his retirement. While working full-time, Louise went back to school and completed an Associate's Degree at Macomb Community College. She took numerous theology classes at Sacred Heart Seminary, from where she received her certification for ministry as a Catholic hospital chaplain. For over a decade, in "retirement", she served at Children's Hospital of Michigan and Bon Secours Hospital, counseling and supporting those facing health challenges. She was very active in the parishes where she lived, most notably St. Raymond (Detroit) and St. Margaret (St. Clair Shores). Louise enjoyed sharing her good sense of humor, a competitive card game (she was a "Pinochle Queen") and travel. She loved to go "bummin" with family and friends, always looking for a new adventure. She and her cousin were the original "Thelma and Louise", going on some legendary trips together. The family is very grateful for the wonderful care and support Louise received from the nurses and staff at Cambrian Senior Living and Carelink Hospice. It was inspiring for the family to see so many visit her room on her last day to say farewell and pray for her. A Memorial Service will be held at the National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica in Royal Oak (2100 12 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48073) on Friday April 11, 2025 at 10 am, with an instate of 9:30 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Louise's memory to Careline Hospice (Bingham Farms, Michigan) or Province of St. Joseph of the Capuchin Order (St. Bonaventure Monastery) in Detroit.

Louise Cowan

December 20, 1933 - March 27, 2025