Irvin “Jack” Cowley

November 13, 1931  –  October 8, 2023

Obituary

Irvin Jack Cowley, born on November 13, 1931, departed this world on October 8, 2023. He is survived by his 7 children: Kathryn, Cindy, David (Colleen), Steven (Valeen), Brian (Diane), Gordon, and Brent, as well as 15 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Jack Cowley’s journey on this earth came to a peaceful end on Sunday, October 8th, as he was reunited with his beloved wife of 60 years, Barbara Cowley.

Jack and Barbara’s love story began in their first-grade classroom, and after his service in the Air Force, they were married on November 21, 1955. Jack’s career in the medical field took off with his admission to George Washington Medical School in 1957. In 1960, he embarked on an ophthalmology residency at UCLA. During this time, Jack and Barbara relocated to Sacramento.

While Jack dedicated himself to raising his growing family and establishing his medical practice, he and Barbara also became the proud owners of a ranch in Siskiyou County. In 1995, they made their home in the cherished Little Shasta Valley. Jack’s passion for ophthalmology remained steadfast, and he played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Siskiyou Eye Center in Yreka. It wasn’t until 2018 that he retired from his work at the eye center to focus his full attention on his beloved cattle ranch.

Throughout his lifetime, Jack made significant contributions to various organizations and communities. He served as an associate professor at UC Davis, held the position of president in the International Brangus Breeder Association, was a member of the Advisory Committee for the National Beef Cattle Evaluation Consortium, and served as President of the California Cattlemen’s Association, among other roles in cattle associations. He could often be spotted tootling behind the wheel of his truck, diligently overseeing his cherished cattle ranch.

Jack was not only a dedicated professional but also a loving husband and a caring father. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him. Memorial services in his honor will be held on Friday, November 3 at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on Miner Street in Yreka.

source: https://www.girdnerfuneralchapel.com/obituaries/obituary-listings?obId=29512589

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