Michael Bash Cowan

Michael Bash Cowan, 77, beloved father, grandfather, brother, friend, and teacher, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2024. He was born to Orville and Beverly Bash Cowan in Havre de Grace, Maryland on January 15, 1947. At an early age, his family moved to Anacortes, Washington where Michael spent his formative years.

Michael graduated from Anacortes High School in Washington and pursued higher education at Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon. Michael grew up with a deep passion for sports and literature; influences that shaped both his personal and professional life.  Following in his parents' footsteps, he became a teacher. He was a creative and dynamic educator, and Michael was known for his unconventional teaching methods, which inspired countless students. His love for learning and his wide array of interests captured their hearts.

A man of many interests, Michael's hobbies were as diverse as they were numerous. He enjoyed writing poetry, playing music, and dancing, and he was an avid sportsman who loved basketball, football, bicycling, windsurfing, kite sailing, skiing, and snowboarding. Above all, what brought him the greatest joy in life was spending time with his grandchildren, whether over a friendly but competitive game of chess or sharing his love of music and dancing at Portland swing and ballroom dance events, creating lasting memories together.

He is survived by his daughters Hadassah Shepard and her husband John, along with their children Ruth, Patrick, Luke, Blaise, and Quentin, and by his daughter Bodil Hughes and her daughter Samantha. He is also survived by his brothers David and Lee Cowan, his sister Joy Lawrence and her husband Mike, and three nieces and nephews. Michael will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched with his optimism, kindness, wisdom, and zest for life.

 The funeral mass will be held at Holy Rosary Parish, 375 NE Clackamas St., Portland, OR 97232 on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 1:30 pm, with a memorial celebration in the adjacent Siena Hall immediately following the service. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend.

Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.