Geraldine "Gerry" (Freeman) Cowing

Geraldine Cowing

Geraldine (Gerry), age 88, passed away 8/2/2014 after a long battle with vascular dementia.  She was the beloved wife of the late Irwin L. Cowing, loving mother of Donna Cowing and the late Linda McIntosh (i.e. Blackburn).  Also survived by her grandchildren Bryan Blackburn, Rodney Blackburn, Barry (Susan) Patrick, Rachael (Jeff) Blackburn Organ, Nicholas J. Blackburn and 8 great grandchildren.  She is also survived by 9 nieces and nephews in Kentucky, Vermont and New Hampshire.

Gerry Cowing was born in Louisville, Kentucky.  During her early years, the family lived, not only in Louisville, but also New York and California.  In her teen years, she became a figure ice skater.  She also loved to dance.

Gerry met and married Irwin Cowing Los Angeles, February of 1946. Irwin was serving in the Navy in Alaska but was on leave when they met in LA.  Their love of dance is what brought them together at the dance canteen.  When Irwin completed his Navy service, they moved back to his home state of Vermont and lived on a dairy farm, which Irwin helped to manage.  Later, they moved to a house that Irwin was building in N. Hampshire but did not live there long.  Opportunities opened and they moved to Cincinnati, OH in the mid 50’s and Irwin began a career with the GE Company.  Gerry also began a working career, first as a store clerk, and then eventually worked as an executive secretary at GE for the next 36 years, retiring in January, 1995.

During the 60’s and 70’s, she did resume her ice skating and began ice dancing with Irwin.  They did this for several years and enjoyed the sport.  Then they took up golf.

Gerry (and Irwin) loved to play golf, entertain with friends, plant flowers in the Spring and have big family Christmas celebrations every year.

Gerry was very dedicated to her family.  Her life truly revolved around her family.  She would not hesitate to sacrifice whatever it took to insure her family was happy and comfortable.  She also loved her little dogs. There were a few throughout the years. When the great grand babies arrived, she enjoyed spoiling them and loved when they visited.

She will be missed.

The memorial service will be held on Friday, August 8, 2014 at 12:30 PM at the Avance Funeral Home, 4976 Winton Rd., Fairfield, OH 45014. In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Alzheimer’s Association of your choice by visiting  www.alz.org