With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Tom Cowell at age 94 at the Lakeshore General Hospital following a short illness. Predeceased by his beloved wife of 65 years Evelyn (Lynn) Cowell and his dear son-in-law Sébastien Poitras.

Loving and devoted father to Jane of Pierrefonds (Richard Kechayan), Michael of Hong Kong (Corona Lee) and Andrew of Georgeville (Heidi Straessle). Cherished and devoted grandfather to Stéphanie, Gabrielle (Chris Hall), and Amélie Poitras (David Mamrowicz), Angus (Marley Jenkins), Harriet, and Kate Cowell.

Born and brought up in the London Borough of Battersea, Tom was evacuated to the country during the war years. When he turned 18, he joined the British Army and was made a commissioned officer at age 19. He served in both Palestine and India. Upon his return to the UK, Tom joined the Metropolitan Police in London and walked a beat around Piccadilly Circus. It was during this time he met and married Lynn - the love of his life.

In 1955, Tom and Lynn immigrated to Montreal and eventually settled in Beaconsfield. Tom studied Marketing at the Université de Montréal and started a new career in that field - first as a Product Manager for Reckitt and Coleman and then in the pharmaceutical advertising business.

Outside of work, Tom loved to swim and play squash at the MAAA. He was an avid duplicate bridge player and when his sons became competitive swimmers, he was actively involved in the Association of Lakeshore Pools (ALPS) and was President of Beacon Hill Pool. In the 1960's, he was also President of the Royal Vale Home and School Association and presented briefs to the Quebec Government of behalf of parents at the Protestant School Board of Greater Montreal.

The term "life-long learning" applied to Tom. He always had his nose in a book with an eye to learning something new. Books on etymology gave him particular pleasure. He loved classical music and watching tennis and rugby, as well as socializing with his neighbours at Les Jardins Beaurepaire. He will be remembered for his charming, wry sense of humour and witty asides.

Visitation will take place at 1 p.m. Tuesday June 28 at Christ Church Beaurepaire, 455 Church Street, Beaconsfield, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to the War Amps (waramps.ca) would be appreciated by the family.