Fraser Cowie

Fraser Smith Cowie January 18, 1939 - December 25, 2016

Passed away peacefully, survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Sheila (Tomlinson), son Ryan (Claire), daughter Katherine and sister Marsha Scott. Predeceased by his parents, Norman Fraser Cowie, Christine H (Drysdale Smith) and sister Norma (Carey).

As a child Fraser moved throughout Canada following his father’s career with the CP Railway.

In 1961, Fraser earned his BSc in Biochemistry from UBC. After graduation, he worked selling chemicals for Reichhold Chemicals. As their Western Canadian Representative, he obtained his pilot’s license and flew himself throughout BC and Alberta so as to more effectively serve his customers.

Years later, Fraser became vice president of Flecto Varathane and later joined food broker, Tempo Sales Ltd. As Tempo’s general manager, he helped develop the company into one of the largest food brokers in BC.

After several years, Fraser formed his own food brokerage firm, Headway Sales. He later recognized a great opportunity with Martin Feed Mills, a manufacturer of retail pet foods.

On a handshake, he negotiated the exclusive rights to distribute their premium pet food, Technical, for western Canada and the US. With Fraser’s sales and marketing expertise, he set up a distribution system and helped develop Technical into one of the top brands in Canada. When Martin Feed Mills sold its pet food division to the HJ Heinz Company, Fraser also agreed to sell his company, Marfeed Distributors, as part of the negotiation.

In retirement, Fraser enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, dividing his time between homes in Vancouver and Palm Desert. He was an enthusiastic RVer and enjoyed travelling throughout Canada, the US, Mexico, and especially along his beloved Fraser Canyon.

Fraser was a unique character who took great pleasure in socializing and conversing with any variety of people. From recognized medical doctors to long haul truckers, he loved getting to know and understand people, usually over a glass of red wine. Many of these people became lifelong friends. He will be missed by many.

Your family and friends will love you forever and always.

A Celebration of Life will be held at First Memorial Funeral Services, 602 Kingsway, Vancouver, on January 14th at 2PM.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Ballet BC.

Reception to be announced at the service.