Walter Raymond Cowles

Walter Raymond Cowles passed away on June 20, 2024 in Bronxville, NY. He was 91 years old. Walter's life story reads like that of a classic American novel. Born alongside his twin sister, Joan, in the Bronx during the height of the Great Depression, he was the oldest of four siblings and learned early on the value of hard work and resilience. One of his earliest memories was being sent home from a movie theater as the manager stopped the movie and announced the U.S. had entered the Second World War. After his father's passing when Walter was only 18 years old, he enlisted in the Army and joined the medical field service division. When he returned home to New York, he followed in his father's footsteps and joined the NYPD. His 22 year police career spanned some of the most challenging years for New York City, and Walter's record reflected that with numerous commendations and awards, most notably for apprehending a bank robber after a citywide chase, which earned him special recognition from Mayor Abe Beame. His stories with the NYPD are many - a favorite was of his duty keeping peace amidst the hysteria when the Beatles first came to America in 1964. During the latter part of his NYPD career, he joined an innovative substance abuse outreach program to get treatment to those in need. It was here he met his wife Stephanie, with whom he would have his first and only child, Gabriel. Walter retired from the NYPD in advance of his son's birth and joined the Carlyle Hotel where he managed security. With his natural social skills and ability to lead, Walter soon began also managing the concierge desk and guest services, where he interacted directly with the hotel's notable regular guests, with some of his favorites being Princess Diana, Nancy Reagan, and George Steinbrenner. Outside of work, Walter loved the beach, spending many summers on the Jersey Shore, and enjoyed traveling to Europe, particularly Positano, Italy where took in the ocean views over a cappuccino or glass of wine. Walter was an avid Yankees fan and a member of the "Yankee's Junior" program as a child, where he got to meet several notable players including Joe DiMaggio, Yogi Berra and Mickey Mantle, whose autographs he proudly showed off to his family.

Walter was the consummate gentleman, a gentle soul who was always kind and respectful to others, and always dressed to impress. He lived a life dedicated to serving others and was loved by all of those around him. He is survived by his son Gabriel and his wife Sarah, his two grandchildren Evie and Oliver, his brother Jerry and wife Barbara and several beloved nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will occur on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm ET at Ballard-Durand Funeral & Cremation Services, located at 2 Maple Ave. White Plains, NY 10601.

A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 from 10:00 to 11:00 am ET at St. Eugene Church, located at 707 Tuckahoe Rd. Yonkers, NY 10710.