Dorothy Marie Cowen passed away in her home, surrounded by loved ones, on January 24, 2024. She was 94 years old. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents Clifford and Grace (Ryan) Crose, her late husband James “Jim” Cowen, seven brothers, and one dear sister.
Dorothy was born on July 4, 1929, in Stockwell, Indiana. The Crose family moved to Lafayette in 1931, where Dorothy resided the rest of her life. She married the late Orville “Junior” Hampton and together, they had four children, whom she loved with all her heart: Vaughn “Tuck” Hampton, Orville “Skip” Hampton (wife Mikee), Rebecca “Becky” Kirts (late husband Jim Kirts), Kathy Gordon (husband Rick).
In 1973, she remarried James “Jim” Cowen and spent the next 25 years traveling, riding motorcycles and three-wheelers, and spending time with their blended family. She worked for Brown Rubber and Andover before transitioning into retirement. She also served as a part-time sales representative with Avon for many years.
Dorothy enjoyed watching Purdue sports, bowling, word puzzles, celebrating holidays with family, and her dogs Amber and Gracie. She was witty, kind, sassy, and caring and those who knew her absolutely adored her.
Dorothy leaves behind a legacy of love and humor, which was most evident in her relationships with her children. Throughout her life, they remained the center of her world. She loved them all fiercely and without condition. She was also an absolutely phenomenal grandmother and had dozens of grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. She will be greatly missed.
Dorothy’s family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to Franciscan Hospice and their compassionate and caring team that went above and beyond to provide peace and comfort during the last month of Dorothy’s life. A private service for the family will be held Monday January 29, 2024, in Masonic Cemetery, Delphi, IN.