It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Alfred Dennis Best Cowdery, a British engineer, on Sunday, April 6, 2025, in Ottawa, at the remarkable age of 93. Dennis was the devoted husband of Yvette Panek for 33 cherished years. He was a loving father to David (Simone) and the late John, and a doting grandfather to Serin (Greg Benadiba), Mason, and Noah. He also delighted in his role as great-grandfather to Avalynn and Oliver.
Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Alfred George William Cowdery and Edith Gladys Best; his brother Brian Cowdery (late Pam); and his first wife Dorothy Mavis Cowdery. He will be deeply missed by his sister-in-law Hanny (late Jim), Kmore, Adam, and their families. Additionally, he will be fondly remembered by Joy Jones, daughter of Mavis’s sister Sheila, as well as his many nieces and nephews around the globe.
A Funeral Service will be held at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa) on Monday, May 5, 2025, at 2 p.m., followed by an Interment and Reception.
For those unable to attend in person, you are in invited to please attend via live-stream: https://my.forever.link/register/beechwood/dennis-cowdery In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Dennis’s memory are encouraged to make donations to the National Art Centre or a charity of their choice. Messages of condolence are gratefully welcomed.
Digital Guestbook
Jane Hubbard
Joy Jones
Uncle Dennis was a man of great intelligence and I am sure inspired many people who he worked with during his life. You will be deeply missed sending ❤️ xxx
Steve Lafond
My condolences to the family. He was a fine Cowdery...some might even say the Best.
Serin Benadiba
Fly high grandpa 🪽! Love you always! 💕 I hope they are serving delicious DQ cones up there! Xo
Gillian Brennan
I have many happy childhood memories of Dennis, Mavis, John and David. Our families immigrated from England at about the same time and our families often spent holidays and vacations together. Dennis was like an uncle to me, and after the passing of his first lovely wife I was pleased that he found a second lovely wife, Yvette.
To Yvette, David and the rest of the family, thinking of you as you move through this difficult transition.
Paul Brennan
Although he wasn’t our biological Uncle, Dennis was like me and my siblings Uncle in every other way. And the Cowdery family is now synonymous for me and my wife to describe those friends that are closest and dearest to us as our children grew up. Thanks for all the memories Dennis, we will miss you!
Janet Maule
My condolences to the family and friends, and especially Yvette. Thinking of you at this sad time❤️.
Linda Rider
Reid and i have many cherished memories of summer visits and garage sailing with Dennis and Yvette. Dennis doted on Reid with that twinkle in his eye that promised adventures to come! I know he will be missed by all. Love to Yvette and the family.
EMMA KWALE AND FAMILY
BEAUTIFUL FAMILY AND BLESSED TO HAVE KNOWN THEM ALL. REST IN PEACE, WITH ALL RESPECT AND ADMIRATION ,THE KWALES.
Kevin and Liz Best
Fondest memories of my cousin Dennis, thank you for being such a major influence in my life. You set the standards for us all to aspire too. We will remember all the fun and laughter over the years. Rest in peace now Kevin and Liz
My deepest condolences to all of the family. Dennis was a lovely person. May he journey well. ✨️