BUFFALO, N.Y. — Tommy Cowan, a South Buffalo native and the owner of Doc Sullivan's and Forty Thieves as well as the managing partner of Patrick's Rooftop at 500 Pearl, died unexpectedly on Monday.
Cowan was 44 years old.
He was well-known for his work in the Buffalo restaurant industry.
Family and friends said Cowan welcomed everyone and would help anyone.
He left a big impression with first responders. If there was a need, Cowan stepped forward to assist.
Buffalo Common Council president Christopher Scanlon said "we we lost an incredible person this week. Someone who In their 44 years on this earth did everything they could to make others feel special. A son. a brother, an uncle, nephew, cousin and friend to so many people. I can't even count. Someone who is a member of the business and the philanthropic and the charitable community, someone who, regardless of the cause would spring into action to do good."
Scanlon has known Cowan for more than 30 years.
Business partner Matty Burke has known Cowan for many years.
"You're never going to find a more kinder, gentle person. He's a gentle giant that would help anybody. I do a lot with Kids Escaping Drugs, and when Tommy said, 'Hey, let's raise some money,' he called all the other bar owners, and they jumped in and gave us a nice check."
Pat Lalley, Cowan's brother-in-law, said "when he walked in the room he smiled at you. He called your name and he made your day because you were there, he was there to see you, and you were there to see him, and he made you feel special."
An obituary shared by James W. Cannan Funeral Home, wrote "At Tommy’s table everyone was welcome. Tommy was a well known Buffalo restauranteur. He achieved his dream through hard work and grand ideas that blossomed. His attention to detail was second to none."
A wake will be held for those to attend and pay their respects on Thursday, May 9 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the James W. Cannan Funeral Home in Orchard Park. A celebration of life will be on Friday, May 10 at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady Of Victory Basilica in Lackawanna.
Donations may be made in his memory to FeedMore WNY. Flowers are politely declined.
Both Forty Thieves, and Doc Sullivan's both posted on social media that they will be closed until further notice.