On Monday, December 7, 2020, Harold J. Cohen, loving husband, father, and grandfather passed away at the age of 81. Harold was born on June 9, 1939, in Boston, Mass., to Max and Mary Cohen. Harold was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Arthur Cohen. He attended Boston Latin School, served in the U. S. Army, received his A.B. magna cum laude, majoring in Russian History from Harvard College where he was a member Dudley House and the Class of 1960, and in 1966, an M.S. in Administrative Medicine from Columbia University. Harold was a professor of health care administration at Ithaca College, Ithaca, New York, for 36 years in Ithaca, NY.
Harold is survived by his wife, Ginger Ward, whom he married on May 22, 1966; his daughter Margaret “Meg” Bishop (Ian Bishop); his son John Cohen (Jen Duerr); his grandson Yonni Bishop; his sister-in-law Barbara Rosen; his niece Marcia Cohen-Rosen Holman; his nephew Kevin Dry; and his daughter Elizabeth Hoskins (Stuart Hoskins).
Harold was a voracious reader. His special interest was history (particularly military history). One of his doctors said Harold was always the smartest person in every room – any room. Harold also loved music (bands, military, opera, classical), movies, travel, conversation, and good food. He had an off-beat sense of humor and was a wonderful raconteur. He was a thoughtful companion, a kind friend, and a gentle soul.
There will be no memorial service. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Tompkins County Public Library (101 East Green Street, Ithaca, New York).
