Carp Lake, Mich., farrier John Cowell, also known as Papa Owl passed away Monday, Nov. 2, 2020, at his home surrounded by his family. He was 84.

Cowell worked for the state of Michigan on Mackinac Island as a blacksmith and maintenance mechanic for several years before he transferred to Fort Michilimackinac, where he retired in 1997 after 25 years of service. He was an avid horseman, a full-time farrier and a 20-year member of the Carp Lake Fire Department.

Visitation was held Wednesday, Nov. 4 at the Nordman-Christian Funeral Home in Cheboygan, Mich. A graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 5 at the Carp Lake Twp. Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Carp Lake Fire Association.