Eugene L. Cowsert;Sig Corps 101stAb/53rdTp Carr Wng; Helena Ar.

COWSERT-OBIT - Helena, AR - Helena Daily World

Eugene L. Cowsert, 87, of Indian Bay died Monday, Nov. 1, 2010 at Indian Bay. Cowsert was born Jan. 7, 1923 in Deering, Mo. to the late J.E. and Fantine Cowsert. He moved to West Helena at an early age and lived there until he retired in 1995.
Cowsert served in World War II for four years in the Signal Corp attached to the 101st Airborne and 53rd Troop Carrier Wing in London, Paris and Germany. He also served in the enlisted reserves from 1951-1955.
He began working for the West Helena Water Co. in 1948 and became manager in 1950. He was the recipient of many awards and honors during his 47 years there as an active member of the industry including - Arkansas Water Managers Association - secretary and chairman, Arkansas Water Works and Pollution Control Conference - chairman and American Water Works Association, Southwest section-chairman, vice chairman and trustee.
He was presented the prestigious George Warren Fuller Award for contributions to the water management field and the Golden Water Drop Award for 50 years of AWWA membership. Cowsert was inducted into the Glen Kellogg Hall of Fame for Outstanding Service and Dedication to the Arkansas Water and Wastewater Industry in 1986 and was Pollution Control "Manager of the Year" in 1969 and Arkansas Water Manager of the Year in 1972.
He also was instrumental in establishing mandatory licensing in Arkansas and served on the first board. He held license No. 2. He served as a volunteer firefighter in West Helena for 20 years from 1951-1971, including as captain.
Cowsert was an avid hunter, fisherman and outdoorsman. Though he didn't get many opportunities because of his dedication to his job responsibilities, he loved to travel with family and friends.
In his early years, he was an active member in many local civic organizations and served as deacon at Cleburne Avenue Presbyterian Church. He was very generous, trustworthy, hardworking and loving to those close to him. He reveled in appearing intimidating to some but was truly a fun loving and tender man. He was a devoted friend and confidant to those who took the time to know him.
Most of all, he was a wonderful and beloved father to this three daughters.
He leaves three daughters, Sherry Griffin, Pat Coleman and Stacy Cowsert; his son-in-law, Reid Griffin; nephew, Rob Coleman; sister, Frances Bonar; sister-in-law, Virginia Cowsert; and many loved nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Charles (Gil) Cowsert, his beloved wife, Jane and many wonderful friends and colleagues.
Graveside services for Eugene Cowsert will be held 11 a.m., Monday, Nov. 8, 2010 in Sunset Memorial Park. Visitation will be Sunday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. at Roller-Citizens.
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home will direct services. The online guest book is at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.