Melaree Smith Death, Obituary
Margaret Cowan Glasgow Death, Obituary: It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mrs. Margaret Cowan, a beloved figure in the world of Ballroom dance and a cherished member of the Scottish Dance Teachers’ Association (SDTA). Margaret, a respected Ballroom Examiner and former Vice-President of the SDTA, passed away after a brief illness, following the loss of her beloved husband, Mr. Andrew Cowan, in November. Together, the Cowans were a dynamic force in the Ballroom dance community, and the news of Margaret’s passing marks the end of an era in Scottish dance.
Margaret Cowan was more than just a teacher, examiner, and accomplished competitor; she was an ambassador for the SDTA and for the art of Ballroom dance itself. Her legacy extends far beyond her technical skill or her competitive success—Margaret’s passion, grace, and commitment to the dance world have left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. Her loss leaves a void not just in the hearts of those who knew her personally, but also in the dance community at large, as we reflect on the enormous contributions she made to the world of Ballroom dancing.
Together with her husband, Andrew, Margaret formed one of the most celebrated partnerships in the history of Scottish Ballroom dance. Their combined talents and shared love for dance created a legacy that spanned decades. Margaret and Andrew were not only successful competitors themselves, but they also went on to build one of Scotland’s most respected Ballroom dance schools. Over the years, they taught countless students, sharing their wealth of knowledge, passion for the craft, and commitment to excellence. Their school became a hub for aspiring dancers, a place where students learned not just technique, but also the artistry, discipline, and joy that define Ballroom dance.
The Cowans’ competitive career was one marked by great success, with Margaret and Andrew achieving national and international acclaim in the Ballroom dance world. They brought their signature elegance and style to every performance, captivating audiences and judges alike. Their dance partnership was a testament to the power of collaboration, as they combined their talents in a seamless and beautiful way. Their success in competitions was a reflection of their dedication to the craft and their relentless pursuit of perfection, but what set them apart was their ability to inspire others.
Through their school and their competitive achievements, Margaret and Andrew instilled in their students not only the technical skills required to excel in dance, but also a deep appreciation for the artistry of the sport. They emphasized the importance of poise, grace, and the ability to express oneself through movement, ensuring that their students not only became skilled dancers but also well-rounded artists. Many of their former students have gone on to have successful careers of their own, and the influence of Margaret and Andrew’s teaching continues to be felt in the Ballroom dance community today.
Margaret’s relationship with the SDTA was one of deep devotion and tireless service. Throughout her long-standing involvement with the organization, she served in numerous roles, including as a Ballroom Examiner and as Vice-President. She worked tirelessly to promote the SDTA and ensure that the standards of Scottish Ballroom dance remained high. Margaret’s contributions to the SDTA were invaluable, and her role as an examiner was one that was carried out with the utmost care and professionalism. She had an eye for detail and a deep understanding of the technical and artistic aspects of Ballroom dance, making her a highly respected figure within the dance community.
As Vice-President of the SDTA, Margaret played a crucial role in the growth and development of the association. Her dedication to the SDTA’s mission and her ability to bring people together made her an exceptional leader. She was a voice of reason and support for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike, always offering guidance and encouragement to those who sought to improve their skills and deepen their knowledge of the art form.
Margaret was not only a leader within the SDTA, but also an ambassador for Ballroom dance in general. Whether traveling across the country or internationally, Margaret and Andrew brought their own unique brand of glamour and elegance to every event. They were widely regarded as ambassadors of grace, professionalism, and style, and their presence was always felt at every competition or gathering they attended. Their commitment to the art of Ballroom dance and their dedication to its growth and recognition worldwide helped raise the profile of Scottish dance on the international stage.
Margaret was known for her regal presence and the elegance she brought to everything she did. Whether she was on the dance floor, in the classroom, or attending events on behalf of the SDTA, Margaret carried herself with an air of dignity and grace that left a lasting impression on everyone who met her. She had a unique ability to command attention while remaining humble, a rare quality that made her loved and respected by all who knew her.
Her sense of style, both on and off the dance floor, was legendary. Margaret’s attire was always impeccable, and her every move exuded the kind of elegance that only comes from years of dedication to the art of Ballroom dance. But it wasn’t just her physical presence that made her stand out—it was the warmth, generosity, and kindness that radiated from her. Margaret was a true lady in every sense of the word, and her ability to connect with people, to make them feel valued and appreciated, is one of the many qualities that endeared her to all.
Margaret’s commitment to excellence and her attention to detail were matched only by her love for dance and her deep respect for the history and traditions of the art form. She understood the power of dance to bring people together and to create moments of joy, and she was dedicated to ensuring that this tradition continued for generations to come.
As we mourn the passing of Margaret Cowan, we are reminded of the enormous contributions she and her husband, Andrew, made to the world of Ballroom dance. Together, they represented the best of what Ballroom dancing stands for—elegance, grace, dedication, and a commitment to sharing the beauty of dance with others. Margaret’s passing marks the end of an era, not just for the SDTA but for the entire Ballroom dance community.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Margaret’s family during this incredibly difficult time. The Cowans were more than just a couple; they were partners in every sense of the word—partners in dance, in life, and in their dedication to the art form they loved. Margaret will be greatly missed by all who knew her, but her legacy will live on in the students she taught, the colleagues she worked alongside, and the countless lives she touched throughout her incredible career.
Rest in peace, Margaret. Your contributions to Ballroom dance and to the SDTA will never be forgotten. Thank you for sharing your talent, your passion, and your love of dance with us all. You will always be remembered with love, respect, and admiration.
