JACK JOSEPH COHEN, beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2019. He will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Sandra (and her husband Bob) and Cayla; his grandchildren Melissa and Sara; his nieces Claire Cohen-Bruce, Carolyn Cohen, Carol Henriquez, Marsha Paul, and Jocelynn Engle; and his nephews Sidney Cohen and Daniel Cohen.
He was predeceased by his dear wife of 57 years, Goldie (Gerry); his older brother Aaron and Aaron’s wife Helen; his younger brother Sammy and Sammy’s wife Pearl; his sister Belle Aaron and her husband Izzy; and his nephew Gordie Greenberg.
Jack was born to Harry and Brina Cohen on July 20, 1923 in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. He served overseas in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. After his return, Jack and Gerry famously met on a blind date originally intended for his younger brother Sammy, and then raised their family in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Jack was a successful pharmacist and business owner of Cohen Drugs North Ltd for over 30 years. During this time, he was also an active member of the Moose Jaw Jewish community; enjoyed golf and tennis in the summer, and curling in the winter; fishing trips with friends; family vacations to Waskesiu Lake; and travel with Gerry to a variety of places, such as Expo 67 in Montreal, Hawaii, Israel, and Palm Springs. Later in life, he and Gerry retired to Winnipeg to be closer to their daughters. There they continued to enjoy winters in Palms Springs, as well as more travel, including a trip to Italy and an Arctic cruise to celebrate their 50th anniversary. A few years after Gerry’s passing in 2008, Jack moved to an assisted living centre, where he enjoyed games of bridge and many lunch and dinner conversations with his table mates.
Jack fiercely valued his independence. He had strong opinions but was always interested in what others had to say. Family was very important to him and he was extremely proud of both of his daughters’ and grand daughters’ many accomplishments.
A graveside service was held in Jack’ memory on September 19 at the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue cemetery. The family would like to thank Rabbi Mass and the many friends who expressed condolences. Memories of Jack will last forever, and his family will always miss him. If desired, donations in Jack’s memory may be made to the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba.
