We are deeply saddened by the death of Bob Cowan OAM, Honorary Fellow of St Mark’s College, who passed away peacefully last night, surrounded by his family.

The flags at St Mark’s are at half-mast as we honour his life and mourn his passing.

Our deepest sympathy to his children Tiffanie, Leigh, and Jeremy, and all Bob’s family.

Bob Cowan was passionate about supporting rural students to receive life-changing study opportunities, at St Mark’s and at other institutions. A warm and loving man, Bob Cowan led this life-changing work with enthusiasm, vigorous commitment, and remarkable generosity.

Over a quarter of a century, from 1995 to 2020, Bob Cowan and his late wife, Gayle Cowan OAM, supported hundreds of students from regional areas to be at St Mark’s through Cowan Grants which have totalled approximately $1 million. Both Bob and Gayle have been recognised as Governors of the St Mark’s College Foundation. We are deeply grateful.

May Bob Rest in Peace.

A Memorial Service for Bob will be held in the Carinya Chapel in the Mt Gambier Crematorium Complex on Friday 8 September at 11am. Following the service, Bob’s ashes will be interred with Gayle in the Rose Area at the Carinya Gardens Cemetery.

You can read more about Bob’s work in the announcement earlier this year of his appointment as an Honorary Fellow of St Mark’s College here.

Read our tribute to Gayle Cowan OAM here and about Bob and Gayle’s recognition in the Order of Australia earlier this year here.