Richard Allen Cowles

Obituary For Richard Allen Cowles

Mr. Richard Allen Cowles was born February 8, 1950 in Hartford, CT. He passed October 3, 2026 at SECU-UNC Hospice House in Pittsboro, NC.

A service and celebration of life will be held on October 7, 2026, 7 p.m. at Love Chapel Hill, 7326 Sunrise Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514.

Rick was preceded in death by Janet B. Gates, his mother, Harold W. Cowles, his father, Rupert L. Gates, his step-father, Pete B. Cowles, his younger brother, and Kathy E. Hill, his younger sister. He is survived by his daughter, Tanya K. Lopez, his grandchildren, Gian-Carlo V. Arce, HM2 Alexa K. Lopez, USN, his great-grandchildren, Dakota M. Burton and Mary G. Clifton. Rick is also survived by his brother Charlie W. Cowles (Anne) and Cece D. Schuetz, along with several nieces and nephews.

Rick was an avid chess player, loved photography, computer sciences and telling amazing (nearly unbelievable) stories. One of his proudest moments was being instrumental in bringing the Navajo Nation into the computer age. He was loved by many in his community, and at the different places he worked or spent his free time.

He will be deeply missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Rick’s honor to Love Chapel Hill (lovechapelhill.com/give).

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