Carlton B. Cowan, Lt. Col. (retired), USAF, of Gloucester, passed away unexpectedly June 27, 2012.

A highly decorated Vietnam era veteran, holder of the Bronze Star, Carl loved his country passionately and served honorably for 20 years from Vietnam to Europe to Central America.

An avid fly fisherman and hunter, he was happiest when discussing politics and philosophy, as well as art and literature. A lifelong Republican, he served as chairman of the Gloucester Republican Committee for the past two years.

He leaves behind his wife, Patricia; sons, Bruce and Dan; daughter, Adrienne; granddaughter, Heather; step-daughters, Carolyn Stanton and Cindy McGuire, and all of his wonderful friends and acquaintances.

A Celebration of Life service was 11 a.m. Monday, July 2, 2012 at First Presbyterian Church, Gloucester, conducted by the Rev. Douglas Nagel.

In Carlton’s memory, contributions may be given to the First Presbyterian Church Gloucester, P.O. Box 581, Gloucester, Va. 23061 or Romney for President Victory Fund, P.O. Box 149756, Boston, Mass. 02114-9756.

Arrangements by Hogg Funeral Home and Crematory, Gloucester Point.