Leonard Calvin Cowdrey
November 5, 1963 – March 29, 2026
With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Leonard Calvin Cowdrey, aged 62, of Penetanguishene, Ontario, on the evening of March 29, 2026, following a sudden tragic accident.
Len was born in Midland, Ontario, to Calvin and Bernadette (Sauvé) Cowdrey, (predeceased 2022). Len is survived by his sons, Calvin and Ken Cowdrey; his beloved granddaughter, Emmy-Rose (daughter of Calvin Cowdrey and Melanie Carrigan), who was the light of his life and his greatest treasure; his sister, Elizabeth Frost and nephew Ben Frost. He was formerly married to Shirley (Hamelin) Cowdrey, with whom he shared a lasting friendship.
As a classically French-trained chef, his culinary talents set the course for amazing family meals and a distinguished career of service in the Canadian Coast Guard. He joined in 1987 as a chef aboard the CCGS Bartlett before rising to Logistics Officer aboard the CCGS Griffin, from which he retired in 2021. Len was a lifelong and enthusiastic sailor, raised on the shores of Georgian Bay, taking any chance he could to get out on the water. He loved camping and fishing and was always keen to be outside. He was also a passionate and talented woodworker, loved sledding and ice fishing.
Len had a great sense of humor and had a gift for making everyone around him feel welcome and loved. He was hardworking, always building or fixing something, and was a true jack of all trades — skills he learned from his father and grandfather. He gave the greatest hugs and was always the first to lend a hand. His warmth, his laughter, and his tireless hands will be deeply missed.
You are welcome to join the family in celebrating Len's life on Saturday, April 11th, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with dinner to follow. The gathering will be held at Sugar Ridge Retreat Centre, located at 5720 Forgets Road, Wyebridge.
Arrangements entrusted to Carson Funeral Homes J.H.Lynn Chapel 290 First St, Midland Ontario L4R 3N9,
Online condolences and memories may be left at www.carsonfuneralhomes.com
Condolences
Karen Schaus
Apr 13, 2026Shirley, Liz and family, my deepest condolences for your loss. Much too young and so dear to your heart but his spirit will always be with you.
Glenda Irene Jackson
Apr 11, 2026Dear Liz - May it help to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time of loss. I have not forgotten how your dear brother came to my rescue when my car teetered on an embankment on the cottage shores of Georgian Bay. 💌
Laura Ellis
Apr 11, 2026My condolences to you all. May your happy memories comfort you in this time of loss.
Mina Walker
Apr 11, 2026I am so, so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and sending so much love. May cherished memories bring you moments of peace.
Josie Kvas
Apr 6, 2026Please accept my deepest condolences Shirley, Calvin and Ken, and extend it to the whole family. May you gather strength and comfort from within the circle of your loving family. Josie ( aka Ms. KJ)
Brenda Jones
Apr 4, 2026Sending my deepest sympathy to the family and Chantelle, Len was my boss for 5years and awesome one ,kind man ,everybody loved him ,well boss man can't believe your gone ,Heaven gained a Angel ,Rest in peace ❤️
marie timperley
Apr 3, 2026I was devastated and saddened to hear about the passing of our dear Len.He was a honourable man and the most loving and caring individual I have known.The man was a talented person that could make and build anything.I am honoured that I had the privilege of knowing Len and having him as a big part of the Timperley family for almost 13 years.He used to to call me mom and I sure loved him like he was my son.I will sure miss him but I know in spirit and his soul he is still present.Len not only used his talents in his homes His work is all over my home I see Len all through my home and yard .I have many memories of boating and camping and had a lot of laughs and fun. Len is not gone as I feel he is with us all with all the memories May Len rest in peace with the heavenly angels in internal peace now.He is now with those that went ahead of him.will dearly miss you Len . mom Marie
Dave & Cheryl Dorion
Apr 2, 2026Our deepest condolences to Lenny’s family and friends
Mel and “The Pea”
Apr 2, 2026Our sincere condolences to family and friends of Lenny. He will be missed by all that knew him. RIP “Bossman”
Betty Arnold (Yetman)
Apr 2, 2026My deepest condolences to Shirley ,Calvin and Ken. Sending hugs and strength during this difficult time.
David Smith
Apr 2, 2026Sorry to hear of Bossman's passing, he was a great shipmate and friend. Our condolences to all the Family. Smitty