Jay Cowan, 75, passed away peacefully on Jan 23, 2022 at the St Boniface Hospital.  Jay is survived by his wife, Elaine; stepdaughters Tracey (Allan) and Teresa, his two grandchildren that he adored and cherished – Mariah and Jordan; his father David (Angeles); sister Dawn (Denny) and nephew David (Akiko).  Jay was predeceased by his mother Isabell.

 

Over four decades of Jay’s life was spent working with First Nation, Métis, Inuit, Federal, Provincial and Municipal governments, private sector, public sector, non-profit, non-government and labour organizations throughout Canada on a diverse range of activities.

 

Jay was a long-time member of the New Democratic Party and was elected to the Manitoba Legislative Assembly in 1977 until his retirement from politics in 1990.  Jay spent his entire life trying to build a better society and encouraged everyone he knew to do the same.  Jay encouraged kindness, honesty, generosity and hard work.  He believed that everyone has a gift that needs to be shared with the world.

 

Jay will be greatly missed by those who knew him as a friend, colleague, teacher, mentor, politician, and his family with whom he shared his love and support.

 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cancer Care, Agape Table or the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.

 

In accordance with Jay’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal service will be held. Jay's family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.