Obituary of James McMahon Cowie

James McMahon Cowie, age 81 of Clifton Park passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, January 26, 2019. Born on January 15, 1938 in Schenectady, he was the son of the late James and Dorothy Cowie.

James graduated with his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Union College, received his M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology, and his M.S. in Health Services Administration from Russell Sage. He served in the US Air Force from 1960-1970, and attained the rank of Captain.

He spent his career as a Health Care Administrator, first serving as the CEO of St. Mary’s Hospital in Troy, then as the CEO of the Hudson-Mohawk Recovery Center.

He was an avid boater and camper on Lake George, making many friendships over the years; and he loved taking trips to Siesta Key Beach, FL with his family. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years; Norma Cowie, daughter Chris Cowie Monast, son David (Sheri) Cowie, his sister Barbara Tessitore, and his grandchildren Ashley Monast, James Cowie, and Jenna Cowie.

The family would like to thank his caregivers Kim and Jesse, his home health aides, and the staff of the Community Hospice of Saratoga for all of the excellent care.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 9 to 11 a.m., with a service at 11 a.m. at the Catricala Funeral Home Inc., 1597 Route 9, Clifton Park. Burial will follow in the Saratoga National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s research; Donation Processing, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or by going to michaeljfox.org.