The family of a man whose body was found in an Argyll loch have said they were “overwhelmed by the love and support from family, friends and the local communities in both Prestonpans and Oban.”
Kieran Cowan, 23, from East Lothian, was with two friends aged 23 and 27, on Saturday afternoon when the small fishing boat they were on in Loch Awe capsized. A full scale search for Mr Cowan had been ongoing ever since.
Mr Cowan was soon to be a first-time father to a daughter with his partner Lisa Reid.
After the boat capsized, two friends managed to swim to safety on a nearby island. They were taken to Oban hospital where they were later discharged.
A statement from The Cowan family read: “The Cowan Family confirm the sad loss of our beloved son and brother Kieran Cowan.
“Kieran was elated and looking forward to welcoming a baby daughter later this year with his partner Lisa Reid.
“We are overwhelmed by the love and support from family, friends and the local communities in both Prestonpans and Oban.
“We ask that people respect our privacy at this difficult time and allow us time to grieve.”
Family friend Connor Fairley has created a fundraising page to help support Mr Cowan’s partner and daughter.
Mr Fairley said: “Kieran was a delight to many people, someone who made everyone laugh and had a heart of gold. Kieran had a solid, steady income and, after the recent tragedy, that will now affect his family.
“It breaks my heart, but as everyone knows, Kieran and Lisa are due to have a little baby girl.
“I have never felt so helpless in my life, so as a very close friend, I would like to help as much as possible. Our group of friends that Kieran grew up with, are doing everything they can to help and I’m sure everyone else would like to do the same.
“Every penny raised will be donated to Lisa Reid to support and provide a little comfort for Lisa and their little baby girl.
“Once the time period is over, I will personally make a book with every person’s name, donation and message that will then be given to Lisa and her baby girl to show the love and support she has from every single person who helped her through this tough time.”