Gary Richard Cowan, 84, of Olney, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday, January 26, 2026. Gary was born in Olney out of the great love of his parents, Richard and Marie (Schnepper) Cowan on February 20, 1941.

He married the love of his life, Randi Cowan, on March 31, 1990. Together they built a home called Cowan's Cove and lived a beautiful life on the lake. This home was the center of their blended families and served as the heart of family gatherings.

Raised in a Christian home, Gary kept his parents on their toes, often testing the limits of their rules and the law. Gary graduated high school as Best Dancer of his class, and went on to receive his business degree at Southern IL University. He served his country as a Captain in the Army Reserves, and traveled solo through Europe on a motorcycle before settling down in Olney to take over his father's propane business, Blue Flame Gas Co. He built and flew airplanes, ran marathons, and sang the blues. Gary had a passion for music. He sang bass in a barber shop quartet and his church choir, and participated in many OCC theater productions. He loved to cheer for his favorite baseball team, the St. Louis Cardinals, and attended many of their games and spring training. He always grew a large garden, with plenty to share. He served as a President of the Rotary Club, was the founding President of ERFAE, and was a President of The IL Gas Association. Gary's passion to serve his community led him to start the chapter of Big Brothers/Big Sisters in Richland Co. This project lives on today as Mentor Richland Co.

He was a devoted father, grandfather and Big Brother. Gary was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Brody Curtis. He is survived by his wife, Randi Cowan, of Olney, sister, Dixie (Charlie) Cocagne of Ann Arbor Ml, daughter, Michelle (Michael Dwyer) Carolan of Dunedin FL, son, John Cowan of Hermann MO, daughter, Babbs (Eric) Pitts of Olney IL, stepsons, Chuck (Sandy) Curtis and Brian (Diane) Curtis, his Little Brother of 30 years, Levi (Anna) Carwile of Shiloh, IL, grandchildren, Cory Curtis, Claire Curtis, Makenna Curtis, Danielle Carolan, Freddie Carolan, Clayton Pitts, Ellison Pitts, and his nephews, Andy and Ed Cocagne.

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Olney has been entrusted with arrangements.

The funeral service will be held for Gary at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Olney. The visitation for friends and family will begin at 9:30 AM, prior to the service.

Interment will follow at Haven Hill Cemetery in Olney.

Memorials can be made to Mentor Richland County or Trinity Lutheran Church in Olney.