Robert Cowan

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Leslie Cowan, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, on June 6, 2025, at the age of 83 in Taylorsville, Utah.

Bob was born on September 11, 1941, in Salt Lake City to Clarence Leslie Cowan and Doris Whitehead Cowan. He was the oldest of four siblings, he was raised in a caring home that instilled in him the values of hard work, faith, and the importance of family.

He met and married the love of his life Mina (Miesje) VanDongen on September 14, 1967, where their marriage was later solemnized in the South Jordan Temple. Their marriage was one of happiness and devotion where together they proudly raised four children.

In his youth, Bob was not only dedicated to academics but also highly active in sports, where he truly thrived. A decorated letterman in varsity football, he excelled on the field, showcasing his natural athleticism, teamwork, and leadership.

He was a proud and dedicated soldier for the Unites States Army Special Forces (Green Beret) and served in the Vietnam War where he earned a reputation for his extraordinary bravery, strength, and unwavering commitment to his country. He continued his service and retired as a Master Sargent in the Utah Army National Guard. His service to his country, made a lasting impact and he earned the deep respect of all who knew his story.

Beyond his military achievements, Bob was a man with many passions. He had a love for the outdoors, particularly for hunting and shooting. His excellent marksmanship along with patience and respect for wildlife were hallmarks of his hunting trips with family and friends. Bob also had an enduring affection for classic cars, dedicating many hours to working on and then showing his '56 Nomad in car shows around the state. Bob was also a fantastic artist with many paintings and drawings that show his exquisite work.

Above all though...Bob was a family man at heart. He adored his family and cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. As a father and grandfather, he provided not only guidance and wisdom but also was a source of strength, humor, and unconditional love. His dedication to family was unwavering, and his legacy will live on through the lessons he imparted, the memories he created, and the love he shared. He was a constant presence at every event, whether it was sports, dance, theater, or music, always there to cheer on and support his children and grandchildren with unfailing love and enthusiasm.

Bob spent many years as a foreman at Kennecott Copper Mine at the smelter, where he was a dedicated and hardworking professional. As a key member of the team, his commitment to excellence and his strong work ethic earned him the respect of his colleagues. Bob took great pride in his role and the contributions he made, always going above and beyond to ensure the success of the operations.

Bob was member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he served faithfully in various callings and was often found helping others in their time of need which he found was very gratifying.

Bob leaves behind his wife of many years, Miesje; his children Rex (Tammy), Corby (Randy), David (Cindy), Doug (Billie), Robert, Coralee; 17 grandchildren: 16 great-grandchildren; sisters Kay, Colleen (Tom). He is preceded in death by bother Dennis and his parents Les and Doris.

Though Bob is no longer with us, his legacy of courage, devotion, and love will endure. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone whose life he touched.

Funeral services to celebrate Bob's life will be held on June 16, 2025, at the LDS church 3045 West Bernina Drive, Taylorsville, Utah at 9:30am(viewing); 11am(service), followed by a military burial at Utah Veteran's Cemetery and Memorial Park.