John M. “Jack” Cowell, age 101, of Mansfield, Ohio, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026. Born on October 21, 1924, in Perrysville, Ohio, Jack lived a life defined by family, service, and community.
Jack proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II from 1943 to 1946 aboard the USS Damon M. Cummings (DE 643). His service earned him numerous honors, including the China Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with one star, World War II Victory Medal, Navy Occupation Service Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, as well as recognition through the Honor Flight (chosen twice) and a Congressional Certificate of Recognition. He had the honor of presenting a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery for the 20th anniversary of the attacks of “9-11.”
Following his military service, Jack worked at Mansfield Tire and McCaulley Care Center, always known for his dedication and hard work, retiring in 1999. He was an active volunteer with the CERT Team, the RSVP Group, the Renaissance Theater, and an Ambassador at the Richland Carrousel, and a valued member of St. Timothy Lutheran Church and the Mansfield YMCA.
Jack’s passions were simple but meaningful: sitting outside listening to and watching the birds, enjoying his flower gardens, indulging in sweets, watching his favorites on TV including rodeo events, Family Feud and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and visiting Cracker Barrel. He loved people and enjoyed striking up conversations with all generations. You knew you were a good friend of Jack’s if he called you “good buddy.” But above all, his family meant everything to him. He was extremely proud and adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, admiring their pictures daily. Jack was known for his sense of humor, he often called himself “a young whippersnapper,” a phrase that captured his lively spirit well into his centenarian years.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 49 years, Verna Rocine (Rosie) Cowell; his parents, Zella Mae (Oakes) and Harry Gay Cowell; his brother Bernard G. Cowell; his baby sister and his special nephew, Gary (Skip) Cowell Sr. He is survived by his daughters, Vicki L. Cowell-Foss and Debbi K. (Dick) Pacelli; grandchildren, Mindi (Mike) Brinegar, Nate (Miranda) Riggenbach, and Missy (Tad) Thomas; great-grandchildren, Lena and Lincoln Riggenbach of Lancaster, OH and Wyatt, Sawyer and Paisley Thomas of Hampstead, NC. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews; including his special niece, Jamie (David) Checkelsky, who spent numerous hours visiting and caring for him.
The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to Dr. Tavallee, Jack’s primary physician, as well as Dr. Raj and all the staff at the VA for their care and support. They are also deeply appreciative of the compassion, kindness, and expertise shown by the staff at Arbors at Mifflin and SouthernCare Hospice.
A memorial service celebrating Jack’s remarkable life will be held at Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road, Ontario, Ohio on Monday, March 16, 2026. Visitation will begin at noon, followed by the service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Union Cemetery, 920 State Route 39, Perrysville, OH. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged for Love Our Hero’s.
Jack’s enduring legacy of love, service, and joy will be cherished by all who knew him.
