February 28, 1929 - December 31, 2020
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.
Share memories and condolences of Colleen online at www.fischersfuneralservices.com