An extensive multi-agency search was launched along the Nith in the Dumfries area last week for Mr Cowie after reports he had fallen in the in the river.
Mr Cowie had been living in the town for a period although had connections with Annandale and Eskdale.
Police Scotland state that the find followed a report from a member of the public at around 9.30 am on Saturday.
A spokesman said: “With the assistance of Nith Inshore Rescue the body has been recovered and conveyed to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.”
He added there appeared to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and a report was submitted to the Procurator Fiscal at Dumfries.
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