Marilyn Elaine (Farber) Cowan passed away on Oct. 22 at Village Shalom in Overland Park, Kansas.
Marilyn was born on July 27, 1947, in St. Joseph, Missouri. She was the beloved daughter of Hymie and Libby (Polsky) Farber. She grew up in St. Joseph, where she attended Eugene Field School and graduated from Central High School. Marilyn went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Missouri in Columbia in 1969. She later received her master’s degree from Baker University.
In 1972, Marilyn married Alister George Mouat Cowan in a double wedding ceremony shared with her younger sister, Marsha. Marilyn and Alister had three boys, Bryan, David and Douglas. They settled in Overland Park to raise their family. Marilyn’s proudest accomplishment in life was raising her boys and pouring her heart into every moment of their journey. Though her presence will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in the men they are today and in the profound love she leaves within their hearts. Marilyn was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.
For more than 40 years, Marilyn was a respected and dedicated educator, teaching English, French and social studies. She led countless students on educational trips to our nation’s capital and inspired generations through her passion for learning. Marilyn also served as regional president of ORT, reflecting her lifelong commitment to Judaism, education and community service.
An avid bridge player who earned Life Master points, Marilyn also loved playing mahjongg and immersing herself in literature. Known for her empathy, compassion and approachability, she always made her students, friends and family feel valued and supported.
Marilyn is preceded in death by her parents, Hymie and Libby (Polsky) Farber. She leaves behind her three beloved sons, whose lives are forever shaped by her gentle strength and endless affection. Every moment she spent with them was filled with unconditional love, gentle guidance and unwavering support. Her heart was never more full than when she was surrounded by her boys and her grandchildren. Her cherished sons are Bryan (Amy), David (Kelly) and Douglas (Cara), who will forever hold onto her family values and love. Her nine treasured grandchildren, Eva, Lexi, Drake, Kennedy, Dylan, Grant, Leah, Hayes and Mae, were her pride and joy. She is also survived by her sister, Marsha Ava Conant (James); and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Marilyn’s light also shines through her treasured friendships, including those with Kathy and Kenny Wissel, Carol Searcy and Marlis Grad, among many others whose lives she touched deeply.
Marilyn’s legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the students she inspired, the friends she loved and the many others whose lives she touched with her warmth and generosity. Her passion for teaching touched decades of students. Her encouragement helped countless young people believe in their own potential. For many, she was the teacher who made all the difference.
May her memory forever be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.
A celebration of life was held on Oct. 26 at Louis Memorial Chapel. Burial followed at Shaare Sholem Cemetery in St. Joseph.
Those wishing to honor Marilyn’s memory may consider a donation to Jewish Family Services of Greater Kansas City (5801 W. 115th St. Ste. 103, Overland Park, KS 66211 or jfskc.org/donate).
