Michael Cowhig

Michael Patrick Cowhig was born on June 29, 1950, in San Francisco, California, to George and Nancy Cowhig. The eldest of four children, he was raised in San Francisco and graduated from Archbishop Riordan High School in 1968.

Shortly after graduation, Michael enlisted in the United States Air Force and served during the Vietnam War. After completing his tour of duty, he met and married Deborah Bigelow in Wichita, Kansas. The couple returned to San Francisco, where they began raising their family.

Michael and Deborah welcomed their first son, Aaron Michael Cowhig, in March 1973. That same year, Michael joined the San Francisco Police Department as a member of the 124th Recruit Class, beginning his career on April 4, 1973. Their second son, Adam Joseph Cowhig, was born in October 1977, followed by their daughter, Nicole (Lowman) Delbridge, in November 1980.

Michael devoted more than 31 years to the San Francisco Police Department, spending approximately 26 years on patrol. In the final five years of his career, he played an instrumental role in the development of Police Crisis Intervention Training and served with both the Stress Unit and as the Psychiatric Liaison Officer.

In 1987, Michael began a personal journey of recovery that profoundly shaped his life and deepened his commitment to serving others.

A highly respected officer, Michael assisted countless members of the department in accessing support and resources. He retired from the SFPD in June 2005.

In retirement, Michael continued his lifelong dedication to service by volunteering with the West Coast Post Trauma Retreat and several Veterans Administration programs. He gave his time and compassion quietly, without seeking recognition, guided only by a desire to help others live life on life's terms.

Michael's greatest joy was his grandchildren: Allie Hager, Korrina Laver, Conner Cowhig, Makayla Moreira, Ryan Cowhig, Matthew Delbridge, and Devin Cowhig, all of whom he loved deeply.

He was also a devoted San Francisco Giants fan and loved living in Montana.

In his final years, Michael battled Alzheimer's disease and dementia with the same vigor and tenacity that defined his life.

Michael is survived by his children and their spouses: Aaron and Wendy Cowhig, Adam and Laurie Cowhig, and Cary and Nicole Delbridge; his brother, James Cowhig, and sister-in-law Sue; and his sister, Nancy Del Florentino. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Nancy Cowhig; his brother, Patrick Cowhig; and his beloved dachshund and constant companion, Earl.

Michael will be deeply missed by his nieces and nephews, extended family, friends, and colleagues.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the staff of The Springs Memory Care Facility in Missoula, Montana, whose dedication and humanity toward Michael and his family did not go unnoticed.

Michael will be laid to rest with military honors at 11:00 am on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula, Montana.

A memorial mass will take place at 10:00 am at St. Brendan Parish School in San Francisco, California, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, with a reception to follow in the parish hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the West Coast Post Trauma Retreat.