Stanley (Stan) A. Cowley
1936 - 2023
Born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, Stan was the second of five boys (David, Stan, Warren, Norman and Ray) to Annie and Norman Cowley. Left to carry on his legacy are his wife, Gloria and children, Cathy (Woody), David (Alanna), Thomas, Kateri (Leroy), Daisy (James) as well as his beloved grandchildren, adopted family, and many loyal friends.
The charismatic character of Stan Cowley was legendary. He had the ability to build and create endless possibilities with people and places. We always remarked on how, no matter where in the world he was, he had friends - and if he didn’t, he would make them.
With such a diverse background of life works, such as Golden Gloves boxer; avid sailor; draftsman with B.A./Gulf Oil; art instructor at Alberta College of Art (SAIT); designer and realtor with his brother Dave of Cowley and Keith; actor and director; artist and illustrator of children’s books, magazines, etc.; president or director of many community organizations; Alberta marriage commissioner; auxiliary RCMP; founding director of Buffalo Nations and more… He received medals and recognition in most of his endeavours.
When Stan was a young boy, he grew a passion for the cowboy lifestyle with the Calgary Stampede and his friends from the Indian Village. He was just 13 years old when he became Blood Brother to Chief Walking Buffalo in a Sundance Ceremony, and throughout his life became an Honorary Chief of the 5 tribes of Treaty 7. The vision given to him was “to teach the people that they were like the trees of the forest, all different, but standing in harmony with one another”. His dream was always to create a Native Cultural Park in the Bow Valley, and when he first arrived at Rafter Six Ranch, the realtor in him knew he had found the best location there.
His love of the cowboy lifestyle was certainly reflected in his long-time participation with the Calgary Stampede. His involvement included having a wagon in the Chuckwagon races, being a volunteer and eight decades of parade participation, including a wagon pack trip from Rafter Six Ranch to the Calgary Stampede in 2012 for the 100th anniversary.
It was at Rafter Six Ranch where Stan had the opportunity to really grow into an Alberta Icon. He was always willing to share his stories, laughter, and love for people through his “Passing of the Legends” museum or even at the coffee shop. Along with his family, Stan shared their genuine hospitality and passion for Alberta tourism in the most natural ways.
Stan was well respected and greatly loved by old time pals and newcomers alike. He was a gatherer of people, and always took time to share his stories and dreams with all who came. He always would try to make those people a part of it. His reach was far and wide and truly welcoming and generous. A life lesson he taught was “if you have something special, share it and it will grow”.
He shared everything. He saved up all his money and bought his first car, to give to his father. He built Rafter Six Ranch Resort to share his vision and beloved family with the world. Proud of each member, he made sure that before he parted, on October 11, 2023, he shared his best gift – his unconditional love.
A Memorial Tribute will be held at Rafter Six Ranch on Sunday, October 22, 2023, from 1-4pm. Please dress for mountain weather as this event will be outside. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Buffalo Nations Museum in Banff, Alberta as Stan was instrumental in forming the Buffalo Nations Cultural Society and its role in attaining this museum.
