February 28, 1929 – December 31, 2020
at the age of 91 years
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our Mom, Colleen Elsie Mabel Cowell (Mama, Mama Bear, MJ and Mumski) on December 31st, 2020 at the age of 91 years.
Colleen was born in West Vancouver on February 28th, 1929 to Emily Martha Black (nee Russell) and Robert James Black.
Colleen was predeceased by her husbands Konrad Schindler (10 years), Charles Cowell (41 years), her sons Kerry Schindler & John Cowell, her sisters Eileen Miltimore & Cherrie White. Mom will be dearly missed by her children, Darlene Herting, Dennis Cowell, Sheryl Ward (Rick), Laurie Lywood (Dan), Brad Cowell (Maree) and Leanne Morton (Rich) & daughters in-law Jane Cowell & Barb Schindler. Colleen also leaves to mourn her passing numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Auntie Colleen always maintained a special relationship to her many nieces & nephews.
Colleen moved from West Vancouver to Grandview Bench in 1946 where she spent 43 years raising a blended family of 8 children before moving into Salmon Arm. Her greatest passion was her family. She was our “Matriarch” and always dealt with life struggles with a quiet strength, grace & dignity. Mama Bear loved her garden, knitting, crossword puzzles, the casino & her grandchildren the most!
This is a woman who asked so little of life, yet in turn life gave her so much. She lived by the Golden Rule “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Arbor Lodge for allowing Mom & family to be together in her final days. We would also like to extend our warmest thanks to the Homecare staff for their wonderful support & a special thank you to Shuswap Hospice/Palliative Care for your kindness during this most difficult time.
There will be no service at this time. Donations to the Children’s Hospital in Colleen’s name can made in lieu of flowers.
In Memory of Your Mother
A loving heart,
A gentle spirit,
A beautiful soul.
Let peace find you in quiet moments and let memories remind you of the special person who will always be in your hearts.
With deepest sympathy to all the family. I too will will miss Colleen and our lovely visits.I feel blessed to have had her in my life. Healing thoughts and prayers are going out to all the family at this difficult time.
Love to all of you.
I just saw the notice of the passing of your Mom. My family, Trevor, Trina and I
are very sorry to hear this sad news. Your Mom and I were long time friends, I
even remember your Gramma. I know that Colleen’s most important people
were her children. She was very proud of each and everyone of you. I shall
remember her and our times together on the Grandview Bench. Love to all
To Colleen’s family: I just saw the passing message of your MOM. I am so sorry to hear
of this unfortunate passing. Colleen and I were long time friends as you all know and my
family, Trevor, Trina and I are deeply sorry to hear this. She had a long life and I know
her family were the most important people to her. We had many good conversations on
the Grandview Bench and here in Broadview Villa. My regrets to each of you and your
families. She will be remembered by me. Love to all of you.