It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing, following a short illness, of Desmond Cousens at the H.S.C. in St. John’s on July 10, 2011, with his loving wife of 23 years, Betty, at his side. Predeceased by his father, Charles, in 2005, Des leaves to mourn his wife, Betty Wells, and son Matthew; mother Betty Cousens and brother Dean of Brandon, MB; brothers- in-law Karl Wells (Larry Kelly) and Len Wells (Cecilia Ozon) of St. John's, as well as his nieces and nephews.
Born in St. John’s on Nov. 5, 1944, Des attended Holloway School and Prince of Wales College, graduating in 1962 as class valedictorian. He was an outstanding student (usually at the head of his class) and athlete, with many trophies and awards in recognition of his activities. At school and university Des played hockey, soccer, basketball, and baseball, He was also a member of several of the Guards’ teams, and played tennis at Riverdale Tennis Club. His summers were spent in Manuals, where his water skiing and swimming skills were among the best.
Des studied Engineering at Memorial University and NS Tech, graduating with a Bachelor of Engineering Degree, followed by a Doctorate in Chemical Engineering from Dalhousie, where he also won the Alumnae Teaching Excellence Award in 1985. He spent most of his working career as Senior Scientist in the environmental division of Nova Scotia Power, before moving back to St. John’s in 2007 and setting up his engineering consulting firm, Environmental Sciences and Engineering Consulting. Highly respected in his field, he was a member of an international group of experts on mercury pollution. Just as he did in school, his professional life also brought many awards of distinction.
Very few individuals with doctoral degrees can claim to have certificates in such things as “sheep husbandry” or as a certified farrier, but Des may have missed his calling. He had a special way with animals, starting with the trust he gained in taming an abused homeless racehorse named "George", which nobody could train. He enjoyed birds, regularly participating in official Christmas bird counts in Nova Scotia. In St. John’s, his hiking buddies were impressed with his ability to mimic a bird call.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the dedicated doctors, nurses, and support staff at the Health Sciences Centre for the outstanding care provided to Des over the past 4 weeks. In memory of Des, donations may be made to the Stella Burry Foundation at Emmanuel House. A celebration of Des’ life will be held at Gower Street United Church on Friday, July 15th at 11:00 am.