John Douglas “Doug” Cowick

John Douglas Cowick, (Doug) 79, passed away from complications with COVID-19 on January 3, 2021 at Advent Hospital in Shawnee, KS. His son, Randy Cowick, passed away from COVID-19 just five days prior, and for those who know Doug and Randy, you know that those two are enjoying each other’s company once again and carrying on their unfinished conversations about their love of family, friends, politics and sports.

Doug was born October 31, 1941 in Kansas City, MO, the first born of ten children of Jack Eugene and Frances Maguire Cowick. Doug graduated from De La Salle High School in 1959 and then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. His time in the military was cut short since he was the eldest son and therefore had to return home to care for his ailing father. After returning to Kansas City, he began working at Quigley Music as a drum instructor and eventually became a partner in the business. His years as a professional drummer afforded him many opportunities and several fond memories of playing with various jazz bands throughout Kansas City.

Doug loved his family and he loved a challenge. He enjoyed his time teaching in Hawaii, visiting China, running marathons and competing in triathlons. A very generous man, he loaned his car to his brothers for prom, he bought bikes and toys for his siblings, and would often take his family camping … even if it meant picking them up at 3am when he had just finished with a weekend drumming gig. Doug was also like a father to all his brothers and sisters after the untimely death of his father, Jack, at the age of 46.

Doug married the love of his life, Gay Richeson in 1963 and their 58-year marriage was one filled with love, laughter and many adventures. Doug worked his entire life in order to take care of his wife and family. He and Gay put their three kids through 12 years of Catholic education and their love of sports provided them with a special bond, especially when it came time to watching some of their favorite teams like KU and the Kansas City Chiefs. Doug would often brag about his children and grandchildren. He loved watching them play sports and was usually the loudest cheerleader there, making his presence known especially to the refs. The Cowick’s home was always one for celebration and themed parties, which included Toga Parties, Chinese Dinners, Christmas in July celebrations and countless back yard BBQs. Doug is somewhat famous in the KC area as the #1 fan of the UMKC Roos college basketball team. In fact, he used his musical talents to write the original fight song for the university.

He certainly made a big difference in the lives of many people, including the children that he and Gay cared for as Foster Parents for over 20 years. They opened their hearts and their homes to many children in need, several of which still stay in contact with the family today and have offered their gratitude for the love, the sense of security and the laughter that they were provided with under their care.

Doug is survived by his wife of 58 years, Gay Louise (Richeson). He is also survived by his daughter Kiz Olson (Jeffrey), son Benjamin Cowick (Krystal), four grandchildren: Jessica, Logan, Olivia and Eli, his brothers Timothy and Dennis, and his sisters Phronsie, Debra, Theresa and Christina.

He is preceded in death by his son Randy Matthew, who also died of COVID-19 just five days prior; his parents Jack and Frances also precede him, as well as his brother Michael and sisters Sharon and Julia.

Doug will always be remembered as a hardworking, kind and generous man who had a great sense of humor. He knew how to have fun with his friends and family whom he deeply loved.

The family will be holding a private burial at Park Lawn Cemetery in Kansas City, Missouri, with a Celebration of Life service at a later date. Donations can be made to Make A Wish Foundation: http://site.wish.org/goto/dougandrandy or Arthritis Foundation: https://www.arthritis.org/honor-memorial-form.

The family will be holding a private burial at Park Lawn Cemetery in Kansas City, Missouri, with a Celebration of Life service at a later date. Donations can be made to Make A Wish Foundation: http://site.wish.org/goto/dougandrandy or Arthritis Foundation: https://www.arthritis.org/honor-memorial-form.