Eugene L. Cowsert

Eugene L. Cowsert, 87, of Indian Bay, Ark., passed away Monday, Nov. 1, 2010, at his home. Mr. Cowsert was born Jan. 7, 1923, in Deering, Mo. to the late J.E. and Fantine Cowsert. He moved to West Helena, Ark., at an early age and lived there until he retired in 1995. Mr. Cowsert served in WWII for four years in the Signal Corp attached to the 101st Airborne and 53rd Troop Carrier Wing in London, Paris and Germany. He began working for the West Helena Water Company 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 Conf.-Chairman, and American Water Works Assoc., 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. Mr. Cowsert was inducted into the Glen Kellogg Hall of Fame for Outstanding Service and Dedication to the AR 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. In addition, he was instrumental in establishing mandatory licensing in Arkansas and served on the first board. He held license #2. He served as a volunteer firefighter in West Helena for 20 years from 1951-1971, including as captain. Mr. Cowsert was also an avid hunter, fisherman and outdoorsman. He loved to travel with family and friends. He was very generous, trustworthy, hardworking and loving to those close to him. He was a devoted friend and confidant to his friends. Most of all, he was a wonderful and beloved father to his three daughters. He is survived by his three daughters, Sherry Griffin, Pat Coleman and Stacy Cowsert; his son-in-law, Reid Griffin; grandson, 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 Jane; and many wonderful friends and colleagues. Graveside services for Eugene Cowsert will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Nov. 8, 2010, at Sunset Memorial Park in West Helena. Visitation will be Sunday evening from 5-7 p.m. at Roller-Citizens. Services will be directed by Roller-Citizens Funeral Home, West Helena, (870) 572-2571. Online guest book www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.