Obituary of Marion Robert Cosand

Dr. Marion Robert Cosand was born December 8^th, 1928 in Burr Oak, Kansas, the son of Mable Godsey and Chester Cosand. Marion was a brilliant man and a gifted surgeon, with many talents and passions, and he left a lasting mark on this world as a true contributor and support to those around him.

Marion served as an officer candidate in the United States Air Force until he was accepted into the University Of Nebraska Medical School, where he was awarded the Regent scholarship. He also completed his specialty training for general surgery in Nebraska. He was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha and Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternities and served as a surgeon in Winner and Pierre, South Dakota where he impacted the lives of thousands in the area. While a surgeon in South Dakota he set up an ambulance system so his services could be extended to those living in remote areas. Cosand’s practice was thriving for 40 plus years in South Dakota, where he worked at St. Mary’s Hospital and he spent a lot of time working with the Sioux of the Rosebud Indian Reservation and surrounding areas. Marion loved South Dakota and spent many happy years there, relishing the fishing, hunting and natural beauty until he retired to Tucson, Arizona in 1994.

Marion owned and ran several farms, of which he was very proud. He understood the true meaning of hard work and an ethical life, values he learned while working alongside his father on their farms throughout his childhood. His farms in Nebraska and Wyoming were among his most prized possessions. Other passions of Marion’s included a love of reading, following the stock market, singing in his church choir, and enjoying college level basketball, particularly his University of Arizona Wildcats.

Marion married Mary Mackie on March 17^th 1979 in Omaha, NB surrounded by family and friends. They shared a 43-year marriage and shared a love for traveling, gathering with friends, playing golf, and bridge. Marion passed on Wednesday, September 1^st 2021 with Mary by his side. He acknowledged living a full and rewarding life.

Marion was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, JT Godsey. He will forever be remembered and treasured in the hearts of his wife Mary Mackie Cosand, his four children, Cindy Stryker, Dave Stryker, Deborah Stryker, and James Stryker, and his 6 grandchildren, Christopher Boub, Mathew Stryker, Mary Stryker, Jacob Stryker, William Stryker and James Stryker.

An announcement for a memorial service will be forthcoming.