‘He has achieved success who has lived well,
laughed often, and loved much;
Who has enjoyed the trust of pure women,
the respect of intelligent men
and the love of little children;
Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
Who has never lacked appreciation of Earth’s beauty or failed to express it;
Who has left the world better than he found it,
Whether an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul;
Who has always looked for the best in others
and given them the best he had;
Whose life was in inspiration;
Whose memory a benediction.’
– Bessie Stanley
On Monday 20th June 2016, a Service of Thanksgiving was held for the life of Robin Cowen CBE.
Many friends, associates and beneficiaries of Robin’s hard work and the Foundation gathered together at Wesley’s Chapel, a Methodist congregation near Old Street, to celebrate his life and work. Despite the drizzly start to the morning, the congregation listened to inspiring accounts of Robin’s work, including his role in the Normandy landings and the Battle of Dunkirk, which (despite the weather) brightened the day.
We would like to thank all who came to celebrate with The Rank Foundation and Robin’s family, as well as Wesley’s Chapel for leading the memorial and the Honorable Artillery Company for hosting a wonderful reception afterwards.
If you have any stories of how Robin’s work touched your organisation or you personally, please get in touch!