In loving memory of

Lois S. Cowan
March 8, 1945 - October 12, 2012

McFarland-Lois Sabre Cowan, age 67 passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on Friday, October 12, 2012 after a courageous battle with ALS.

She was born in Madison on March 8, 1945 the daughter of Narval and Leona (Kratochwill) Lewis. She graduated from East High School. She met the love of her life, John Cowan in May of '91 and shortly thereafter they were united in marriage. Lois worked at various jobs throughout her life. Her favorite place of employment was working at McFarland Schools as a lunch lady. She loved the interaction with the kids and her coworkers. She retired from there in 2011 for health reasons. She was a member of the American Legion Post 534 Women's Auxiliary.

Lois loved to travel with her husband John until she was unable. She was an avid reader and in her spare time enjoyed gardening, tending to her flowers, designing houses and drawing up plans. Most of all she loved spending time with her family.

Lois is survived by her loving husband, John; children, Tim Dalby and Shannon (Mike) Benzing; 4 step-children, Rick (Mary) Cowan, Phil (Bekki) Cowan, John (Kerri) Cowan and Regan Cowan; 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; sister, Sharon (Dick) Nachreiner; brother, Al (Fran) Lewis; and many nieces and nephews. She is further survived by her best friend forever (BFF), Ellie Olson. She was preceded in death by her parents; step-daughter, Debbie (2010); and grandchild, Johnny (1999); sister-in-law, Carol Cowan (2008).
The family wishes to express their great appreciation to Lois' BFF, Ellie Olson for her dedication, care and everlasting love; also to Agrace HospiceCare and the amazing team of caregivers for their support.

Funeral services will be held at 3 pm on Wednesday, October 17, 2012 at Cress Funeral Home, 5801 Highway 51, McFarland. The family will greet friends one hour prior to service. A luncheon will follow the service at the American Legion Post 534, McFarland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Agrace HospiceCare, Inc.

Tributes

Regan and Missy Cowan wrote on Oct 15, 2012:

"Lois, U have been the one to teach me right from wrong so many times, your love, caring, compassion, and advice will be greatly missed. I remember when I was younger, how I used to hound U to open a sit down restaurant just cause of the amazing cooking skills U had. I also remember how U taught me how to make twice baked potatoes, after that, U made sure to serve those, and my favorite side dish (peas) during every meal I had with U and Dad. Thank U for everything U have taught me. U'll forever be in the Cowan Family's heart!"

The Cowan Family - Rick, Mary, Grant, and Emily wrote on Oct 14, 2012:

"Lois, as Cortney said, Heaven surely gained an Angel! You will be greatly missed & loved by many, from now until we meet again in Heaven. I haven't met such a genuine loving, kind person so willing to share in life, thank you. Your so full of spirit, sound advise and life. Unfortunately, we didn't get to town enough, but when we were in town, I loved to sit on the back porch and listen to the fountain, enjoy the flower gardens and share your thoughts. I especially liked when you'd pull out that graph paper and sketch out our new home layout plans - I always found it amazing that you never secretly added a room for you and Dad. I'm so glad you entered our lives and how happy you made us all. Thank you for all the memories, know you're in our thoughts and prayers."

Cortney Dalby wrote on Oct 14, 2012:

"There are so many memories!! You were the kindest and most generous woman.. I could always count on a laugh or smile from you when I was down.. I love you grandma.. forever and ever!! You were an amazing woman and will be greatly missed by many - Heaven surely did gain one heck of an angel!!"