Gary Lee Cowan (Papa) (Dog) passed unexpectedly on May 22, 2026, in Cleveland, Oklahoma, at the age of 66. Gary was born on March 27, 1960, in Fairfax, Oklahoma, to Nolan (Tuff) and Mary Lou (Funkhouser) Cowan. He graduated from hominy High School in 1978. He married Nora Ceciolia Dyer in 1979.

Gary is survived by his two daughters, Brandi (Shawn) Sutton and Ashlee (Pete) Perrier; One stepdaughter, Shannon Mitts; Grandchildren, Kaden, T.K., Alexis and Jordan Sutton, Kamrie, Kiah, and Kinlee Field, Cedar Perrier, Jalyn Piearcy and Jason (Sadie) Bradford. Great grandchildren, Tinslee and Hadlee Piearcy, Blair and Bud Bradford, Vivian, Bella and Lily Perrier and Etiva Whiteshirt; Two sisters, Cheryl Walling and Mary Lynn (Rick Waffle) Cross.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents and one grandchild. 

In 1986 Gary moved to Muskogee and began what would become a lifelong career as a truck driver. He spent years hauling freight, collecting stories and making friends everywhere he went. He drove until March, 2026, when health issues forced him to retire from Coweta Trucking, his favorite and longest job. Gary was a big kid at heart and never met a stranger. If you needed help, advice, a favor or money, he was your guy. He had a generous heart and would give anything to anyone who needed it. When he wasn't working, you could find him at the casino, having a double Crown and Sprite, while enjoying being around all the people. Summers were spent at the lake, riding jet ski or puling the grandkids on a tube. He loved vacations and spending time with family and friends. He was always searching for the best chicken fried steak and would always order the largest margarita at Mexican restaurants. He did love the Kansas City Chiefs, Oklahoma City Thunder and Oklahoma State Cowboys. 

He leaves behind family and friends, who will miss his laughter, his stories, his generosity, and his ability to turn an ordinary day into an adventure. While we mourn his passing, we can all take comfort knowing that somewhere beyond the pearly gates, Gary has already found a casino, a lake, a chicken fried steak and a margarita big enough to satisfy him. He lived exactly the way he wanted, working hard, helping others, loving his family and having a good time, always. 

Rest easy Gary. The load is finally delivered, the road is straight, and your next vacation has just begun.

A celebration of life is scheduled for 12:00 P/M. on June 20, 2026, at Hominy City Lake lot #10, with a reception to follow. 

Brandi and Ashlee would like to thank everyone of their family and friends for loving their Dad. We know he was special to each and every one of you.