Carl E. Cowan, 88, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, at his home. Born January 12, 1938, in Hawstone, PA, he was a son of the late Russell and Myrtle Kelly Cowan.
A US Air Force veteran, Carl served honorably from 1955-1959. He was employed as a Telecommunications Operator at Letterkenny Army Depot until his retirement. During his time in government service, Carl was awarded numerous commendations for his service and attended many courses to further himself in his career. He enjoyed golfing and working on electronics including computers and televisions.
Carl is survived by his wife of 59 years, Florence J. Stitely Cowan, whom he married on March 4, 1967; two sons, Robert Parks of Neelyton, and John Parks of Chambersburg; six grandchildren, Robert Parks, Jr., Brandon Parks, Matthew Parks, John Parks, Jr., Bruce Lee Parks, and Taza Parks; several great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Charlotte Showalter of Fayetteville, and Sharon McGee (Garnet Brookens) of Chambersburg. Aside from his parents, Carl was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Autumn Fife; and his brother, Donald Cowan.
A memorial service to honor Carl’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, May 22, 2026, in the chapel of Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, PA 17202. Rev. Brent Stouffer will officiate. The family will receive friends from 1:00 – 2:00 PM prior to the service at the funeral home. Condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com.
