Obituary of Walter Ruel Cosman

Walter Ruel Cosman (1935-2026)

On Wednesday, April 1st, 2026, at 91 years old, Walter Ruel Cosman of Cookstown, Ontario passed away peacefully at home with his wife of 71 years by his side. Walter was born in Saint John, New Brunswick, on March 23, 1935 to parents, James Ruel Cosman and Merien Pauline Sherwood. Walter is predeceased by a sister Ruth Otis; and a brother, Neil. He is survived by a sister, Elizabeth Evans. Walter brought his new bride, Frances O’Neal, to Toronto in 1955, to raise a family of four daughters: Ruth Edwards of Oshawa; Patricia Moss (Steve) of Oshawa; Joanne Kerr (Tim) of Cookstown; and Nancy Alves (Henry) of Thornton.

After pioneering a photographic department at Canada Packers, Walter was instrumental in bringing regional Professional Photographers Associations together, becoming the founding President of the Professional Photographers of Canada. He was also an entrepreneur who brought same-day photofinishing into Canada. Though successful in business, Walter was foremost a family man - a very loving husband; father (to his sons-in-law as well); grandfather & great-grandfather. He will be deeply missed by all of us, though we rejoice that his race is finished and he is with the Lord he longed to see. Walter’s favourite hymn says, “I need no other argument; I need no other plea. It is enough that Jesus died; and that He died for me”. 

Walter is now “with Christ, which is better by far” (Phil 1:23)

A private family burial will take place on Saturday, April 4th, 2026. A memorial service will be held at a later date.