Louis Andrew Douglas Cowin

November 9, 1925 - October 8, 2018

Louis Andrew Douglas Cowin left us on Monday, October 8, 2018, having died of natural causes. “Andy” was born in Birmingham, England, on November 9, 1925, and spent his early years residing on the Isle on Man. He fought in WW2 as a “British Commando” in one of the coldest winters in many years. In 1949 he completed his military service, and returned to the Isle of Man. He began painting hotels along the beach front and worked in a brewery in the off-season. Wanting to travel, he booked passage to New York, where someone recommended New Orleans to him. He continued on and settled here in November, 1965. He stayed at the Lee Circle YMCA, and found work in his trade as a painter and wallpaperer. His strong work ethic and positive attitude made this a secure life work. In February of 1966 he took up residence in an upstairs apartment at 1138 St Charles where he hosted many friends, particularly for Mardi Gras. In 2011 he lost a leg to poor blood circulation, but his stubborn strength and sharp mind enabled him to stay in his same apartment until his passing at age 92. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Douglas Cowin and Kate Gilbert Cowin, his brother Gilbert Charles Cowin and sister Jane Hillary Cowin Jewell. He is survived by his nephews Douglas and Paul Jewell. He was dear to Carolyn Darcey, who made him a part of her family for holiday and family gatherings; to Jim Costigan who formed a bond with Andy, bringing him to the favorite places he frequented as a younger man; and to Rocky Troxler, whose family building was a home to Andy for 52 years. Andy will be sadly missed by all those who shared a beer and enjoyed his many stories. His wish to be cremated and to be interred in the Mississippi River was fulfilled at Crescent Park, Saturday, October 27, 2018 at noon, with friends gathering to celebrate his life.