top of page

Jay Cowan

Image by Nick Andréka

JAY COWAN

​

July 31, 1946 – January 23, 2022

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.

​

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

​

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

Please share a story, photo, memory or condolence for the family by completing the form below and clicking "Post Comment"

Thank you for your comment!

76 Comments

Leave a Comment

↑ Both fields are required ↓

Upload Photo(s)

Don Scott

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Elaine and family, so sorry to hear this news late this night.  Fitting in a way, as we often worked late in the night during our years together in the Legislature.  Jay was passionate about people, especially his Northern constituents and neighbours.  He served Manitoba well, was perhaps the most effective member of the Opposition from 1997 to 1981 and a leading Cabinet Minister from 1981 to 1988. He counselled us newer and younger members, and worked himself to exhaustion, neglecting his own health and well being. He delighted in showing us his North, be it by car or canoe. Last time I was in town, he walked me across town in deep snow in the dead of winter to show me a new Indigenous business he was proud to be helping get on its feet.  Elaine, he adored and loved you and due to your care and love he was able to carry on much longer despite nagging health issues.  Sorry to lose such a valued former colleague. RIP Jay, you earned the respect of the many for whom you toiled.  Don & Lois
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Shirley Thompson

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

The patience and courtesy Jay showed was profound. I have so much to learn - from my reflectton of working with him about radical acceptance and believe in equality. I had thought he might be 60 or 65 but he was over 70 making trips to fly-in remote communities, taking small planes, then boats to make sure they were central to decision-making.  He tirelessly assisted First Nation-led community programming with Anokiwiin Training Institute (ATI) at Garden Hill First Nation, Wasagamack First Nation to realize a community-led Homebuilding program for youth. Due to Jay's care and consideration this Mino Bimaadizin Homebuilders program started as a 9 month program - but grew to almost two years, with the same limited funding. Jay wanted to give maximum benefit and every opportunity for learning to these youth. This was achieved with 71 people participating in these two remote communities. So many youth benefited from this Indigenous-led program that Jay accredited through ATI. Most students graduated - over 80% -in this college level program, which was huge benefit to building homes in this communities, which suffer from overcrowded housing. Jay Cowan - you gave so much and you were such a benefit - there is no other university or college that would have done this but your integrity made it happen. You were an angel -- ready to help when needed. You are so appreciated and loved Jay. . 
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Chris pawley

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

So sorry to hear of such a loss of such a great man. He always made everyone around him feel special. May he rest in peace condolences to Elaine and family.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Sean McCormick

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I am grateful to have worked with, laughed with and learned from Jay. He did and will continue to inspire me to try to make the world a better place. A truly noble man. 
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Dave Scott

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Sometimes someone enters your life and has such a profound impact it changes your very outlook. That was Jay Cowan. The countless hours we spent discussing social democratic politics in Canada and Australia. I will always remember Jay's humble nature and banks of knowledge and wisdom. He gave his all to the community. Jay was a mentor and a mate and I will always value the time I had with him. Much love to Elaine and all of Jay's family and friends.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Evelyn JA Beardy

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I first met Jay when he was on the campaign trail and he came to Churchill, decades later met up again when he came to York Landing and worked with our First Nation. Always respected him, he was very passionate about the work he did helping others. I learned from him by listening and watching how he communicated with people and I am now using those skills in my work and life. So long my friend, journey well to Creator. ❤
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Olivia (Rhonda) McCorriston

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

So very sorry Elaine and family! Jay was a leader in education and training in Manitoba. He was strategic and warm hearted. Many cups of coffee!  It is a loss for family and community.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Jeffrey Betker

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I had the privilege of working with and knowing Jay. Jay always looked for a solution that would benefit all people and parties involved. I considered Jay to be a mentor, friend , teacher and a gentleman always willing to lend an ear. He was a man I deeply respected and truly admired. My thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends. 
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Norman Meade

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

So sorry to hear about Jay's passing. I wish to extend my sincere condolences to you Elaine and to the family and close Friends of Jay. I will never forget the teachings of Mr. Cowan from the time I  first met him in the 70's as we both worked for the province, as well as each time after that as our paths crossed.  My thoughts and prayers are with you.  
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Doug McGiffin

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

So sorry for your loss, Elaine. Please accept my condolences to you and your family. Jay made a huge impact on Manitoba and was a great person to be around. I enjoyed working with him and especially liked our long conversations. A true loss for all,
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

James Connery

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I am saddened to hear that the world has lost this great man. I have known and worked with Jay since 2013, he was an amazing person who truly cared about others. Inspired people to be better and to never stop reaching for what they wanted most out of life.  It truly was an honour to know him and to be inspired by him on so many levels. My thoughts and prayers are with him, his family and for all those who ever had the opportunity to be motivated by him.  Thank you Jay, you will be missed and remembered.  
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Jerry Storie

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Jay Cowan will be missed by everyone who knew him.  Elaine and the family will miss him in their lives, but his life meant a great deal to those who knew him, worked with him and considered him a friend.  He is all the wonderful things that people have said about him in commemorating his life. He exemplified the notion of commitment to a principal and to a cause. He meant what he said and he said what he meant, except sometimes in the legislature when he needed to speak for forty minutes on the Burnt Toast Act or some other minor bill or amendment. He was a master at many things.  He has left a legacy of kindness, humility, and a long list of things that he accomplished or helped others accomplish. He was the kind of human being we all should try to be. So long, my friend.  
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Nickie Batzel

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Sorry to hear. Jay was such a kind man. I knew him when he worked with Manitoba Inuit.  He was so easy to talk to and he and Nedra guided us.  He did a lot for many communities.  Thoughts being sent to his family❤.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Victoria Lehman

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Jay's energy and wisdom are knit into the fabric of the lives of so many Manitobans, especially his efforts reflecting the struggles of Indigenous peoples' and the North, and will continue to reverberate in our Province for years to come. Gone far, far too soon. Sincerest condolences to Elaine and Family.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Chris

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I knew jay from The SPF program he was a great mentor and teacher he got me a good stable job that I'm still at today I learned a lot from him.it was sad to hear that he passed on he will be missed my condolence to the family and his wife.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Donald Goodmanson

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

He was an awesome guy who showed me a different side of myself and I'll never forget about his wisdom he gave me. 
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Dan O'Connor

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

My deepest condolences to Elaine and all of Jay's family.  I met Jay in May 1980 when I moved to Manitoba to work for Howard Pawley and the NDP Caucus.  Jay was a neighbour, but far more importantly he was a constant presence in the lead-up to NDP victory in November 1981.  We would drink coffee all day, sometimes walking home around midnight high on caffeine and ideas to build more support for the NDP.  Jay stood out from the crowd for his integrity, work ethic and deep commitment to the North, particularly indigenous people.  Those were formative years for me, and I learned so much from Jay's example -- and also from Elaine, who even tried switching us to decaf.  The world needs more people like Jay and like you, Elaine.  May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing.  
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Judy Sinclair

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

It was so sad to learn of Jay's passing...I first met Jay when I joined the NDP way back when... I travelled to fly in communities canvassing with Jay and Rod Murphy..he was the kindest man I met...he always had kind words for everyone we met on our travels..Fly High Jay Cowan 🦅🙏...You will never be forgotten 💔... condolences to Elaine and Family
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Rosalie

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I just wanna say my condolences  to jay family he was a great guy you will be missed im happy I  meet you and you new my grandparents you always talked about them all the time thank you for giving me opportunity  to be on your program and plus getting a job at Manitoba muckluks you said I was gonna make which I did graduated and I'm still working today and thank you for all you done . God rest your kind soul Yell  be missed bye many r.i.p jay 
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Donna Saunders

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

❤ Deepest Sympathy to Elaine and rest of the family. I knew late Jay through Anokiiwin Training Institute and working with late Roy Redhead York Factory First Nation. He helped us with our local training center in York Landing with Jeff Beardy, Danielle Beardy, Wendy Saunders, Martina Saunders, Marlene Spence, myself and others. I gave late Jay a ride from Thompson to York Landing and took the ferry and enjoyed our talks. It was a pleasure knowing you. And thinking of Nedra Andersen, his side kick  and Elaine 👍 ekosani 
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

David Chadwick

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I am sad to learn that such a principled and dedicated leader has died. Jay and Elaine were mentors to me when I became caucus staff in 1985 and I feel fortunate to have travelled with them to many northern communities and to watch them in meetings. Their energy and enthusiasm were infectious. Jay often worked long hours without breaks or meals. He was deeply committed to the Indigenous people of Northern Manitoba. My condolences to Elaine and family.  
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Donald Goodmanson

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I was ONE of the participants in the SPF PROJECT 😀 YOU believed in me very much Jay. I'm so sorry 😞 for the loss
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Gary Doer

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

We were very saddened to hear of Jay’s passing. We both have many great memories of our friend and colleague. He was one of the hardest working people we ever met. His lights at the legislature were rarely off as he worked morning to night on behalf of all Manitobans, but particularly those in the North. Our deepest condolences to you Elaine and your family. Gary Doer and Ginny Devine 
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Judy Wasylycia-Leis

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Dear Elaine and family.  So sorry to hear this morning of Jay's passing.  Hearts are breaking everywhere especially in NDP circles.  Jay was my teacher, mentor, role model and friend throughout my time in politics, always a go-to-person on political strategy matters and on environmental stewardship.  Jay epitomized for me what it meant to be a principled politician - tough as nails about addressing economic injustice, climate change and human rights abuses but never without a plan of action involving specific policies and timelines and always with honesty and human compassion.  Jay lived and breathed the mantra - "first you have to want to change the world and then you find a way to do it."  Jay, thank you for building a better world and leaving a road-map for others to do the same.  May you rest in peace and power.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Sharon Parenteau

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Rest easy my friend. I'm a better person for having known you. You helped me grow so much as a leader. I was lucky to have spent many hours with you as you guided, nudged and supported me in your kind, caring way. Sending condolences to Elaine and family ❤
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

donnadumas

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Condolences to Jay's family....I am sad to hear of his passing, we never got a chance to have coffee, he said once covid ends. Come visit me and Nedra we are still downtown.. You both were a great team in delivering projects. You walked them thousand steps daily; often I bumped into you, and I would shout out Jay what number; you would turn and smile at me. Rip Jay you were a great man.  
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Sig Laser

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

A gentle giant.... and a ferociously competent negotiator or the Steelworkers and NDP governments. RIP my friend .... I should have visited your downtown offices more often.... Condolences to Elaine....   Sig Laser  
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Bridget Ross

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Jay was always our go to person when we lived in Leaf Rapids ,,he was a very faithful friend that one could count on for anything and everything .  He would even camp at our house while we were on holidays,,RIP Jay . Condolences to Elaine and family.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Dr. Anita Olsen Harper

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I'm so sorry to hear this. Elaine and all your families--please accept my condolences and❤❤❤. Jay was so helpful to my (deceased) husband, Elijah Harper, in federal and provincial campaigns, and subsequent support. RIP, Jay--so many of us miss you and your work in education for First Nations in the north does not go unnoticed... Meegwetch.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Michael Decter

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I had the wonderful experience of working with Jay in the Pawley government. He was hard working, highly intelligent and principled in everything he did. Manitoba and particularly northern Manitoba is a far better place thanks to Jay’s enormous contributions. My condolences to his family and all those who knew him.Michael Decter 
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Corinne

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Semms like I just had a meeting with you yesterday lol aww so sad to hear of his passing. fly high Jay and condolences to his family ❤
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Desmond Hines

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Meegwich Blue Jay for helping me on my journey. I wish you all the best on your next journey.Bless you helper.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Christine Harapiak

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Many good memories of Jay during the years he and my Dad served as northern MLAs. Two stand out - the tour of northern Manitoba he took a van load of young New Democrats on to show us how to engage with communities (and work) and secondly a day I made the mistake to join Dad, Jay and a few others on a ski trail. I was outclassed and exhausted and finally caught up - happy it was over. Dad laughed and said “you’re just halfway!” and took off into the bush. Jay stayed back and kept me company. Thoughtful, principled, great mentor. Sorry to hear of his passing.  Christine Harapiak
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Ibolya Hennessey

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I first met Jay when I worked for him at Anokiiwin Training Institute. A true leader and mentor. Very professional and a huge advocate for those living in the North. I very much respected him as his wise ways. He will forever be missed.  Condolences to Elaine and family. ❤
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Lawrie Cherniack

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

He was a fine man who gave so much in his life for others, and did it with grace, fine intelligence, and a wonderful sense of humour. I am very privileged to have known him over the years. My condolences to Elaine and the rest of the family. May his wonderful memories console you in this difficult time. Grief is the price we pay for love. And Jay's love of life and of people will survive and overcome grief.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Andrew King

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

My condolences to family and friends. I knew Jay as a Steelworker from Lynn Lake who ran for politics, elected and served in Pawley government.  He then became an environmental consultant that help me at the Steelworkers develop our first environment training program. Kind, gentle hard working he was a good friend and ally. My deepest condolences to Elaine and family.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Craig Cormack

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

My time spent working with Jay, while serving as Minister of Northern Affairs, was relatively brief. However, throughout that period, his brilliance, sense of humour and dedication were so vividly apparent. My sincere condolences to Elaine and family. RIP Jay Craig Cormack
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Jim Thompson

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

My heart goes out to Elaine and family.  I am grateful for all Jay shared with me as a mentor, role model, and friend.  He had endless energy, a boundless curiosity, and unwavering dedication to making this world a better place for working people.  Jay introduced me to his beloved North and a cast of characters that became lifelong friends. I was so lucky and proud to work with him.  I will cherish fond memories - from working late into the night at the Legislature to marathon road trips up North fueled with cold coffee, peanuts, and salami and conversations on everything under the sun.  With love and respect, safe journey my friend.  
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Danielle Beardy

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

My deepest sympathies to the family of Jay Cowan. I have so much respect for this man who mentored me as a leader for my people through education, training and employment in York Landing at our Learning Institute. I have learned so much from his guidance. May he Rest In Peace!
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Wilson Parasiuk

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Jay Cowan and I first met in the NDP opposition caucus after the 1977 election.  I then watched this tower of strength , talent, integrity and character emerge as a force in limiting the ultra Conservative government of Sterling Lyon to one term. Subsequently  as a member of  the Government Caucas and Cabinet in the 1980’s , he helped provide very good government to Manitobans in the trying times and conditions we inherited. Remember, these were the days of plus 20 percent interest rates, crashing commodity prices and high unemployment across the country. Jay continued to be a tower of strength and compassion. The Pawley government worked its way through many problems , usually with the drive of the indefatigable Jay and his flip charts. Ultimately Manitoba became the Province with the lowest unemployment rate in Canada. A role model for good, caring , efficient government. Also, Manitoba emerged as the leading Province regarding human rights in general, in so many ways, and women’s rights in particular. Jay was always intensely involved in these efforts. He was able, caring and tireless. Jay continued his principled, caring, sharing journey in life after his formal political career with his wonderful partnership in life and in progressive activities with Elaine, specially with Indigenous people , and in the North. This is so clearly demonstrated in the heartfelt notes of condolence and appreciation that we are seeing. Wilma and extend our condolences to you Elaine and to your family. He is missed but also Remembered. Finally, as I reflect on Jay’s life, his character and his contributions to Manitoba, I am thankful that Manitobans were so fortunate that Jay came North of the border to help build a better Province and Country. Amazingly, in the short period of the latter 1970’s and through the 1980’s ,  he, and we, had excellent colleagues  from the US in Mary Beth Dolin and Marty Dolin. Sadly, all three have passed but as I watch the chaos south of the border and feel good about living on this side of our border, I can’t help but feel so grateful to them. 
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Tanis Thomas

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Jay Cowan was a kind and good human.  He introduced me to the world of manitoba politics, he also introduced me to information technology as a tool at Anokiiwin Training Institute (which he founded with his equally talented partner in life, Elaine).  I ran into him over the years and always stopped to say hello and catch up.  His energy and determination to improve the lives of his fellow man set a good example for us all.  May he walk well.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Myrna Korbutiak

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

My sincere  condolences to Elaine and family.  Met Jay while working with Elaine in early 2000. never knew him well although to was easy to tell he was a nice man as Elaine is. R.I.P Jay you will be missed by many.  
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Dennis Atkinson

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

If not for Jay, I would never have experienced the beauty, warmth and friendship found in Northern Manitoba....thanks Jay, for being a good man.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Sandra Hardy

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

My condolences to Elaine and your family. Such a loss. Jay made us all want to be better people because of the example he set and the life he led. I met him in the run-up to the 1981 provincial election and have always respected and admired him. 
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Marileen Bartlett

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Our condolences to Elaine, family and friends. Staff at CAHRD and  Neeginan Centre worked closely with Jay over the last 4 years. Jay was running the Innovation and Skill Development and Mentoring for Entry Level Employment Training Project with us.  Jay made a real impact on all the students that he worked with and I am sure they will miss him, as will the rest of us who had the pleasure of knowing him. We used to joke about Jay’s long reports but he  was devoted to helping the participants and had a lot to say about their progress.  He will be missed.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Donna Carlson

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

My sincere condolences to Jay’s family, coworkers, friends and those who’s lives have been impacted by this fine gentleman. I’ve been viewing the messages that reflect on his life, such wonderful testaments of all the blessings he has had on many different community groups. It’s been my pleasure to have worked alongside Jay and Nedra on the Innovation Skill Development and Mentoring for Entry Level Employment Training Project as a Job Coach. The lives of many of the participants as well as my own have been impacted in so many positive ways and the journey continues.
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Paul Moist

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

My sincerest condolences to Elaine and the entire family. Jay's roots in the labour movement were deep and we were happy and proud to support his entry into politics with the full support of the MFL on behalf of all union's. His health and safety activism placed Manitoba at the forefront in terms of legislation to protect workers in the early 1980's.  He was also a key figure in the establishment of the MFL Occupational Health Centre which  for 40 years has provided quality service to workers throughout the province. Jay was a friend to all workers and I was proud to have known and worked with him.  May he rest in peace. Paul Moist
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

1/12

Sharon Bear

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Jay was someone who inspired me to start my educational journey into community development. I was participant of a pilot project he was apart of a couple years ago. He was such a great facilitator, and gave me a opportunity to better my life. I am so sad to hear that he has left this world. My condolences to his wife and other family members. Such a blessing to have known such a great man.  
Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a Title

Describe your image

Add a Title
Add a