Mervyn Cowen, of Oliphant, peacefully at Brightshores Health System – Wiarton on Sunday October 5, 2025. Mervyn Donald Cowen at the age of 86 years. Devoted husband of Elizabeth Jane “Betty” (nee Henderson) for over 67 years. Dear father of Jason Cowen (Terri Lynn), Debra (Perry Brydges), and Suzanne (Grant Cameron). Cherished grandfather of Achilles, Riddick, Madison, Gabriel, Gavin, Curtis, Charlene, Heather, Matthew, Gregory, Bejamin, Carlton, Jessica, Vanessa and Evan; and great-grandfather of 19. Brother of Esther (Vern Williams); and brother-in-law of June (Ron Evans), and Mabel Cowen. Sadly missed by daughters-in-law, Roxanne, and Danette; and his many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, Donald and Elsie; a son, Roderick Cowen; brother Earle Cowen; brother-in-law Dave Henderson; and sister-in-law Dorothy (Barry Mole). Friends are invited to service to celebrate Mervyn’s life at the Thomas C. Whitcroft Peninsula Chapel, 272 Berford St., Wiarton (519) 534-5341 on Sunday October 26, 2025 at 2:30 PM. For those not attending the service, all are welcome to a reception at the funeral home from 3-5 PM to share food and stories. Donations to the Bruce Peninsula Hospitals Foundation or to jw.org would be appreciated. Condolences may be expressed online at www.whitcroftfuneralhome.com
Date of Funeral
October 26, 2025

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Diane McCrodan says
October 7, 2025 at 10:40 amTo Betty and family, I was so sorry to hear about Merv’s passing. I have fond memories of working with Merv and lots of lunches at the Top Notch. Sending condolences
Diane
Cindy Cowley says
October 8, 2025 at 8:55 amTo Betty and family, my deepest condolences. I have many fond memories of Merv and his stories of flying.
Bruce Peninsula Sportsmen’s Association says
October 8, 2025 at 11:11 amJason
Sorry to learn of your dad’s passing. Sincerest condolences to you and your family members at this time
Fellow members of BPSA
J Thibideau says
October 8, 2025 at 11:16 amSusie and family
Sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Thoughts and prayers are with you and yours during this time of sadness and reflection.
Jean Sadler says
October 10, 2025 at 1:49 pmSorry for your loss. I had a great time as one of Merv’s Bruceland Air employees. Jean
Bruce Land Air employees
Netta Mallard says
October 10, 2025 at 9:01 pmCondolences to Betty and family.
I fondly remember my time at Brucelandair
Lloyd and Gayle Bye says
October 10, 2025 at 9:57 pmSuzanne and family
So sorry for your loss. Cherish your memories.
Gayle Bye says
October 10, 2025 at 10:00 pmSuzanne and family
Our thoughts are with you all. Hold your memories close
Roberta Jackson says
October 13, 2025 at 5:40 pmSincere condolences to Merves’ family. I have great memories of working with him and the gang doing medavacs.
Bobbie Jackson
Roberta Jackson says
October 13, 2025 at 5:47 pmSincere condolences to the family. I have fond memories of working at Bruceland Air.
Bobbie jackson
Bobbie Jackson says
October 14, 2025 at 9:14 amSincere condolences to Merv’s family. Many fond memories of doing Medavacs with him and the gang.
Susan McMillan says
October 20, 2025 at 1:04 pmDeepest condolences Betty Jane snd family
Susan (Henderson) McMillan
Ruth Henderson says
October 20, 2025 at 1:15 pmMy sympathy to all members of the Cowen-Henderson Family affected by this loss.
Elsie Christensen says
October 21, 2025 at 3:28 pmSending my condolences to Merv’s family.
I have many fond and wonderful memories of working with Merv on medevac flights with Bricelandair.
Dave & Darlene Sheppard says
October 25, 2025 at 1:05 pmMy dearest Betty. Our HOPE keeps us focused on the Joys we hold in our hearts, which will help you Endure the pain of losing a loved Soul Mate ;
Our hearts are with Deb,Suzanne, Jay & families. Losing Dad Grandpa
Esther, losing a brother is tough,, we feel your loss too
Hang onto memories until Merv stands up when his name is called
Meanwhile, we share your pain.
Darlene & Dave Sheppard
Carrie Lawlor says
October 26, 2025 at 9:45 amWe are so very sorry to hear of Uncle Merv’s passing. We have many fond memories of spending time with him, Aunt Betty and all the family. Our sincere condolences to you all.
Love Shelley and Jack, Carrie and Troy and family
Shelley Henderson says
October 26, 2025 at 10:15 amIt was so nice to see Uncle Merv just recently at The Boot & Blade. That memory of him will be etched in my brain forever. So sorry for your loss, Aunt Betty and all my beautiful cousins. I will be thinking of you today.
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