Douglas “Doug” Cowan

Douglas Wayne Cowan, age 82, passed away on December 25, 2025. He was born on February 27, 1943, and was born and raised in Margaretville, New York. Douglas later raised his family in Roxbury, where he was well known and deeply connected to the community.

Douglas was the son of Donald and Elizabeth Cowan. He was reunited in passing with his sisters Mary, Betty, and Barbara, and his brother Bill.

He graduated from Margaretville Central School in 1963. After graduation, Douglas worked various local jobs before becoming a truck driver for Lutz Feed. He later worked on the New York Power Authority tunnel project.

In 1973, Douglas purchased his first bulldozer and founded Cowan Excavating, a business he owned and operated for approximately 45 years. The company later became a family business when his son David joined him, a source of great pride.

Douglas was married twice and later divorced. His first marriage was to Betty Harrington, with whom he had his son, David Cowan. He later married Valerie Holloway, becoming a stepfather to her son, Korey.

Douglas was active in his local community and widely known throughout the area. He was a member of the Roxbury Fire Department for 35 years and also served as a Cub Scout leader. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting at his camp, spending many afternoons with his longtime friends Scott and Karen Soderback, and, on nice days, driving around in his Mustang.

Douglas will be remembered as hardworking, supportive, generous, and friendly, and as a devoted family man. He valued his work, his community, and above all, his family. His steady presence, kindness, and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his son David Cowan and daughter-in-law Elizabeth; his grandchildren, Derek Cowan, Paulina (Cowan) Racheck and her husband Alan.

Services and calling hours will be held on Tuesday, December 30, at Jay Gould Memorial Church. Calling hours are from 12:00 to 2:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM.

A reception will follow at the Roxbury Fire Department.

At the family request, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Margaretville Hospital Squad in his memory.